Punctilious

Punctilious, created by Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch, was unveiled by Houston Ballet on November 30, 2007 at Wortham Theater in Houston, Texas. Punctilious is a ten minute romp choreographed to Dvořák's Carnival Overture.

This dazzling classical showpiece was created to showcase the rising young stars of Houston Ballet.  

The piece comprises a series of solos and ensemble work for 12 women and eight men that reflect the vivacious and exuberant quality of the score. In his own description, the Czech composer wanted to create an atmosphere of a jubilant carnival.

"On every side is heard the clangor of instruments, mingled with shouts of joy and restrained hilarity of people giving vent to their feelings in the songs and dancers tunes," wrote Dvořák. As choreographer, Mr. Welch balances the music's energy with, as the title suggests, the precision of classical ballet vocabulary.

Dance critic Nancy Wozny in Arts Houston wrote, "In the world premiere department, Welch offered Punctilious, a pretty, white frosting of a ballet fitting a celebration. Mr. Welch explored its pure classic side and showcased the mighty talents of his dancers." (January 2008).

Dance critic Molly Glentzer observed in the Houston Chronicle Online, "It's loaded with technical fireworks, and really pops at the end when the whole cast of 20 is onstage in close, alternating lines." (December 1, 2007).  

PUNCTILIOUS
Music by Antonin Dvořák (1841-1904)
Carnival Overture
Choreography by Stanton Welch

World Premiere on November 30, 2007, by Houston Ballet in the Brown Theater at the Wortham Theater Center in Houston, Texas.

Dancers: Erin Patak
Dancers: Jaquel Andrews
Dancers: Sharon Teague and Christopher Coomer
All photos: Amitava Sarkar