[Herald Review] ‘La Bayadere’ starts slow, ends strong

Published : Oct 29, 2015 - 16:29 Updated : Oct 29, 2015 - 16:29

Set against the imaginative backdrop of exotic India, the Universal Ballet’s latest production of “La Bayadere” pays homage to the 19th-century tale of two people’s eternal vows that ends in tragedy.

The nearly three-hour-long “La Bayadere,” or the “The Temple Dancer,” follows the story of the alluring lower caste temple dancer Nikiya and her unflinching love for a young, royal warrior named Solor. Sharing her deep love and affection, Solor vows to the gods his eternal devotion to her.

Scene from the Universal Ballet Korea’s latest production “La Bayadere” (Universal Ballet Korea)

However, their fairy tale love soon turns tragic when it is revealed that the High Brahmin, who has also fallen for Nikiya, refuses to end his pursuits; meanwhile, Princess Gamzatti also expresses her desperation to marry the fetching warrior.

In the eyes of the ruling caste, there is only one solution to the emotional puzzle -- the bayadere must die.

Best known for its trademark dazzling costumes and opulent stage settings, the Universal Ballet’s production of “La Bayadere” does not disappoint in this respect. The vibrant and visually quenching set is arguably the most memorable aspect of the ballet aside from soloist Kim Chae-lee as the virtuous bayadere.

Nikiya may have died, but her tragedy is what ultimately saves the show from a demise.

The first of the three acts starts off needlessly slow, as it emphasizes hand miming and gesturing over footwork and full-body movements. Skirting the line between disappointment and mediocrity, it is only from Kim’s solo in the second act that that the show is propelled to another level.

Outshining fellow Universal soloist Choi Ji-won -- who plays the role of the dastardly Princess -- no words are necessary in Kim’s role of Nikiya. Not only is her footwork and balance a breath of fresh air, but her face tells the whole story.

From a lively young, lovestruck girl to an emotionally crushed woman refusing to save herself from death, Kim’s portrayal of innocence being devoured by reality took center stage.

“La Bayadere,” which opened Tuesday, will be staged until Sunday at the Seoul Arts Center’s Opera Theater. Ticket prices range from 10,000 won to 120,000 won. For more information, visit www.universalballet.com.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)