All Smiles by Joan Acocella is a brief article that criticizes the "pop star" atmosphere that is taking over the ballet scene. The general idea of going to the ballet is viewed as arts for the privileged and the elite. The ballet is supposed to be sophisticated, classy, and highbrow. However, Acocella claims that dancers of the premier American Ballet Theatre company have been "wooing" and "flirting" with the audience for extra attention. This type of performance behavior is usually reserved for mainstream entertainment that feeds off of the energy and money of adoring fans.
Grinning, winking, and "saucy looks" degrade the performance value, according to Acocella. Her word choices clearly show her dislike for what she's been witnessing in the ballet. In the opening sentence, she throws down the word "epidemic" to describe the unwanted behaviors. They are a "problem" and they "attack". She treats the dancers as criminals when she calls out one particular dancer as the "worst offender". One thing she does to slightly lessen the blow of her article is to say that talent is not the subject of questioning. The dancers are more than qualified to be performing in such esteemed shows.
One thing to consider, that maybe Acocella hasn't, is the economy. Perhaps the American Ballet Theatre is broadening their demographic to increase revenue, and that pop star performance is what the general public likes to see. Developing a connection with the audience is a method to engage them in the performance. Feeling connected keeps them coming back for more.
Are these behaviors just cheap tricks that should be left to the likes of Miley Cyrus and light-hearted musicals? Is it really hurting the value of the piece, especially a serious one, to shoot a smile at a member of the audience?
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Figures this would happen. Find me a medium that hasn't adapted itself to the failing economy, or changed in order to gain more revenues.
ReplyDeleteI can see why traditionalists might be offended at these new "moves" dancers are pulling. However, I think there still is a large difference between Hannah Montana and the American Ballet Theatre, regardless of its new-found flirtatiousness.