By Nicole Crawford
*The Nutcracker* conjures up images of dancing mice and Christmas time tutus. *Swan Lake* brings to mind waif-like ballerinas and men in tights. Omaha Theater Company’s presentation of *Confetti* — a ballet? Hmmm … not so much.
For those of you who have in the past shunned the world of ballet, this may be your chance to sneak in quietly and unnoticed. The name *Confetti* is used because while most ballets consist of a single full-length work, this one features several short, unrelated ballets. It is a mixed-repertory program that spans a range from neo-classicism to lyrical jazz.
“The idea is to give our audience a sparkling, colorful mixture emphasizing variety and contrasts,” says Artistic Company Director Robin Welch.
The four pieces are the company’s first ballet *Valse Fantaisie* by choreographer George Balanchine, two newly-commissioned premieres, *Forest and Sea*, and *Un Petit Cadeau,* which features live on-stage accompaniment by concert pianist Svetlana Rodionova.
The performances will be staged in the Hitchcock Theater at The Rose. This intimate space will put you close enough to see the different dynamics of athleticism, acting ability and personality that bring about a great experience with modern ballet.
Performance dates and times are: Friday, Jan. 25, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 26, at 8 p.m.; Sunday, Jan. 27, at 3:30 and 6 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 2, at 3:30 and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 3, at 3:30 and 6 p.m.
Ticket information is available by calling the Omaha Theater Company box office at 345-4849.
