The Central Academy of Ballet presented A Midsummer Night’s Dream for their annual performance at Piazza Teatru Rijal, Valletta.

The academy presented an abridged version of the play, set to the beautiful music of Felix Mendelssohn.

The production was extremely elegant with lovely designed costumes which complemented the movements of the dancers.

Keith Micallef as Oberon showed off his fine technique as a classical dancer, especially when partnering the lovely Titania, danced by Nicola Buhagiar.

Ashton’s renowned choreography was adapted with taste and within the dancers’ capabilities, which reminds me of a well-known phrase ‘less is more’.

The central plot of the dream is known for its comical content and this was well played by the lovers, Helena (Marisha Bonnici), Demetrius (Robert Scicluna), Hermia (Tamara Micallef) and Lysander (Joseph Spiteri). They were all very expressive in the comical scene which the audience appreciated.

There was also some very fine pas deux between the couples. It was good to see Tamara Micallef back on the dance scene and should be encouraged to continue.

I wish to refer to the craftsmen in the woods, a group of fine lads who have all had some formal training in the past and still pursue their love of dance and theatre.

I must say a good word for these men who all have their own profession and yet dedicate hours of their time for such presentations, all of which really does enhance the actual production.

I simply loved the character Bottom played by Gino Camilleri, his head movements were so expressive.

The mischievous Puck was played by Warren Bonnello who portayed the character with verve and energy. His lines and footwork need more attention.

A word of praise must go to the Corp de Ballet, which moved so gracefully and lightly: the elegant Spanish group under the fine direction of Svetlana Silina and Peter Howitt, who never fails to design the right set to offset the ballet.

May I congratulate the two directors of Central Academy, Monique Pellegrini Petit and Mireille Coleiro for a great performance.

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