Live Music: Featuring Jazz Star Halie Loren
Ballet Fantastique’s “American Christmas Carol” offered an extraordinary and refreshing interpretation of the classic holiday story. Blending gothic elegance with the emotional depth of live jazz, this production captivated audiences through its hauntingly beautiful and innovative presentation. At its heart was Halie Loren, an internationally acclaimed jazz vocalist whose soulful performance added an unforgettable richness to the evening.
“An American Christmas Carol” tells the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a cold-hearted man consumed by his love of money and disdain for Christmas. One fateful night, he is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Smokey Joe, along with the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Through these encounters, Scrooge undergoes a profound transformation, becoming a kinder, more compassionate man. In this unique ballet performance, told with minimal words, Scrooge rekindles his romance with his former fiancée and spreads joy by gifting presents to all.
The narrative was brought to life primarily through expressive dance, with performers of all ages delivering deeply emotional portrayals. Narration was used sparingly to highlight key moments, with actor and singer Adam Goldthwaite delivering a charismatic performance as the Ghost of Smokey Joe, seamlessly guiding the audience through this unique retelling of Charles Dickens’ beloved tale. The gothic elements lent the production a mysterious, slightly eerie tone, perfectly balancing the warmth and joy of the holiday spirit.
Set in 1940s America, the show paired vintage jazz standards reimagined with a modern flair — with stunning choreography and theatrical storytelling. From the skaters in Central Park to the Cratchit family’s cozy cottage, the production’s attention to detail transported the audience to a nostalgic and vibrant era. The live jazz score, featuring holiday classics made famous by legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole, beautifully enhanced the dancers’ movements, creating an immersive and dynamic experience.
Children and adults alike participated in this multifaceted production, with young performers from Ballet Fantastique’s dance academy impressing audiences with their talent and skill. The inclusivity and creativity on display made this performance truly special and showcased the broad artistic range of Ballet Fantastique’s dancers.
Ballet Fantastique also continues to make the arts accessible to students, offering discounted tickets to college attendees through a simple will-call process with their student ID. This program ensures that the next generation has the opportunity to experience and learn from transformative performances like this one.
“American Christmas Carol” was more than a show; it was a magical celebration of dance, music, and storytelling. Ballet Fantastique’s ability to reinterpret a classic story with originality and flair made it an unmissable event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to attend. It is always a privilege to witness the artistry and heart Ballet Fantastique brings to the stage. “The show runs Saturday, Nov. 30 & Sunday, Dec. 1, at the Eugene Hult Center. Tickets start at $15 and are available at hultcenter.org.”
