‘Jazz Moves’ delivers, again

Capital City is rapidly becoming the county's best kept secret when its comes to prime entertainment, proven by the magnificent pairing of BalletMet Columbus and the Columbus Jazz Orchestra last night in "Jazz Moves Take 2," running until Jan. 14 at the Capitol Theatre.

The internationally-acclaimed institutions came together for a remake of their 2006 joint endeavor, which garnered such accolades as "brilliant," "a masterpiece" and "groundbreaking," and they didn't disappoint.

Though lagging a bit in the second half, the dancers and musicians have an electrifying chemistry. CJO director Byron Stripping squirms as lead dancer Olivia Clark dances seductively about him after his high-pitched trumpet solo brings her to life during "High C," a number by Maurice Hines enjoying its world premiere. BalletMet's signature male dancers, in rare form, each fight for a spot next to her throughout the number.

The night's brilliance is mainly seen in the intricate multi-layers of performance that play out on stage. During Randy Duncan's "Testify"—a work of utter genius returning from the original "Jazz Moves"—a mesmerizing duet is performed at the front of the stage, five couples work out an intricate group number just behind them, Stripling sings joyously on a platform just above, all against the backdrop of a full big band orchestra blowing out a hip take on the gospel number "Get Right Church."

Other standouts include Stella Kane's "Bebop," a dance-off between four dancers participating in what can only be described as a game of high-stakes musical chairs, and "The Ballrooms," featuring twelve couples split in costume and presentation, shows off two styles of ballroom flair. The first group draped in more traditional black and white flutter about stylishly while the second, in fire orange and flashy red, bring a swinging counter piece.

The night ends with "Bourbon Street"—another premiere this time by Randy Duncan—that opens with an emotional portrayal of an old fashioned funeral procession led by the mournful gyrations of Adam Hundt, later quickly shifting to a high-energy New Orleans celebration featuring Stripling on vocals and a full company finale.

The excitement is a little jarring at first, but you easily adjust as beautiful dance duets, masterful saxophone solos and swinging full company dance numbers, where the woman are being tossed about like beach balls on a summer day, help guide the transition.

"Jazz Moves" takes you on a journey through a wide spectrum of jazz music. From blues and swing to gospel and soul and back again, with the help of radiant and inspired dance sequences to guide you along the way.

CJO and BalletMet have always been known for successfully debunking the myth of sticking only with traditionalism that many still associate with their mediums, constantly presenting progressive and modern twists on old ideals, and "Jazz Moves Take 2" is definitely no exception.

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