Women figure prominently in Ballet West’s new production of Igor Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. The story revolves around virgin sacrifices, to be sure, but off the stage there is also a strong female presence, from the guest conductor (Tara Simoncic, making a return appearance) to sections of the orchestra.
From left: Lisa Verzella, Sara Marchetti and Seretta Hart
For the first time in Utah Chamber Orchestra history, the trumpet section will consist entirely of women, said principal trumpet Lisa Verzella. “This is pretty unique,” she told Reichel Recommends. “Among professional orchestras, only the St. Louis Symphony has two women trumpet players.”
Besides Verzella, the Utah Chamber Orchestra’s trumpet section includes Sara Marchetti and Bob Brown. But because of a family matter, Brown was unavailable to play for this production. He will be replaced by Seretta Hart. “She’s our first sub,” Verzella said.
Even though the score is quite demanding, Verzella is excited about playing it. “This will be the first time ‘The Rite of Spring’ has been done by Ballet West since 1998.”
Verzella is also looking forward to having Simoncic on the podium again. “She’s fantastic,” she said, adding that she’s happy to have Hart join her and Marchetti. “This is a great group.”
The Rite of Spring will be danced to Nicolo Fonte’s choreography. Also on the program is Forgotten Land, choreographed to Benjamin Britten’s Sinfonia da Requiem and George Balanchine’s Divertimento No. 15.
- PERFORMANCE DETAILS
- What: Ballet West
- Venue: Capitol Theatre
- Time and Date: April 11-12, 16-19, 7:30 p.m., also 2 p.m. on April 19
- Tickets: $24-$74
- Phone: 801-355-2787 or 888-451-2787
- Web: www.arttix.org