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Passion and rules of behavior collide in a dazzling display of dance, drama and music in O! Balletto.

Based on Nobiltà di Dame, a 17th century rule book for dancing, deportment and court etiquette by dance master Fabritio Caroso (excellently played by Tobias Wildman Burns in the only speaking role), O! Balletto mixes classic ballet with modern dance, Baroque music with contemporary compositions and remixes from Neil Alexander and entertains with seduction and betrayal subplots where opposing forces interlace, clash and change all of the rules.

Choreographer/director Lane Gifford incorporates video art (John Knowles) and costumes (co-designed with Kate Griffler) combining period and modern elements. The choreography includes subtle directorial touches, like a dancer throwing a hate-filled look at Caroso behind his back. Gifford should have trusted her skills to convey two lovers’ passion through movement alone, rather than resorting to nudity that wasn’t necessary and disrupted the flow of the scene.

The company’s eight dancers skillfully combine emotion and dance steps to create a work of art worthy of the cry, bravO!

---- Lauren Yarger

Presented by Lane & Co.as part of The New York International Fringe Festival at THEATRE 80, 80 St. Mark’s Place., NYC.
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