SunMi Park (Tita) performs during a tech rehearsal for the American Ballet Theatre’s “Like Water for Chocolate,” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa on Wednesday, March 29, 2023. “Like Water for Chocolate,” based on the best selling novel and film, will be at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, now through April 2.” (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)
By Orlando Arechiga
Based on Laura Esquivel’s acclaimed novel with the same title, The American Ballet Theatre hits a home run with the North American premiere ballet of the beloved tale.
‘Like Water for Chocolate’ tells the story of a Mexican woman named Tita who falls in love with her sister’s husband. In a three-act ballet, Titas faces challenges of duty, family tradition, and a ruthless mother. From the moment the beautiful original score by Joby Talbot begins, the story unfolds beautifully on stage. Every element supports each other perfectly, making the story feel free and fresh.
Although the production is flawless, it’s important to speak about the Mexican culture being presented by the American Ballet theater. First, the choreography by Christopher Wheeldon is unique, showcasing ballet movement that feels very jazzy. It’s creative, but Wheeldon lack of research on Mexican culture and Mexican dances is easy to see in the three-act ballet. Although the choreography is top-notch, Wheeldon could have taken the time to research on Mexican dances and combined it with his unique choreography. A line of women dressed as skeleton doesn’t cut it. He could’ve incorporate dances like The Jarabe or Folklórico. Yes, I am aware this is a ballet, but it felt like a missed opportunity to showcase and honor the Mexican culture in a way never seen before.
Another highlight of the production is the set design. The set design supports the story perfectly, as it helps the story feel authentic. The production uses projectors to help the story move throughout time. It works. Overall, all the performers do an excellent job, Although at moments when there are many performers on stage, the overall picture looked messy. The American Ballet Theatre efforts are shown over the three-act ballet. If you are in the OC, I highly recommend stopping by at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts to see this unique production.
American Ballet Theatre’s ‘Like Water for Chocolate’ will play until April 2 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Tickets are on sale now at scfta.org
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