Intoxicating Dance and Romance, The Merry Widow

Love, passion, elegance, exotic dancing, remarkable orchestral music, comedy and radiant costumes are what The Merry Widow had to offer during its opening night.
The Joffrey Ballet, with Chicago as its current home, presented Ronald Hynd’s adaptation of Franz Lehar’s 1905 romantic operetta The Merry Widow.
The Joffrey Ballet – also known as the “America’s Company of First”:  the first dance company to dance in the White House, the first to appear on television, the first to appear on the cover of Time Magazine and many more firsts – fully met the high expectations of the audience and was awarded by a standing ovation. America’s Joffrey Ballet focuses on expressing a unique and inclusive perspective on dance. It assembles its diverse members to perform in a classical, artistic and powerful style, making Joffrey Ballet a world class company.
The tale of The Merry Widow takes place at the turn of the century in Paris, in the fictional principality of Pontevedro. As the town is bankrupted, the astonishing Count Danilo is persuaded to marry the beautiful and rich widow, Hanna Glawari. The people of Pontevedro want to keep her money.  As their comic love story unfolds, a delightful set of dance choreographies take the stage. The diversity and elegance of the actors give it a juicy cultural power. The lack of words gives the audience an opportunity to add their individual taste. Your eyes will be entertained from start to finish. A brilliant art work…
The Merry Widow makes its Chicago and Joffrey premier. “This year, we have an exciting opportunity to celebrate the 80th birthday of renowned choreographer, Ronald Hynd, by presenting his ballet The Merry Widow during our winter program” said Joffrey Ballet Artistic Director Ashley C. Wheater. Some of Mr. Hynds work has been performed by companies from South Africa, Austria, England and many other countries for the last 20 years.
The masterful choreography by Ronald  Hynd, exquisite costumes designed by Italian designer Roberta Guidi di Bagno, a neo classical scenario created by Sir Robert Helpman and live orchestral accompaniment performed by the Chicago Sinfonietta, make the 2 hours and 16 min fly by.
The Merry Widow will be playing at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University from February 16 through February 27. For Specific times and tickets prices you can call all Ticket Master Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or visit Ticket Master or Joffrey
It is recommended for a mature audience. Plan to arrive early due to construction around the area.