Salle: McCarter Theatre Center, Princeton

Riveting production shows that Nixon in China still speaks to today's audiences. 

Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, one of the most popular and enduring ballets, was performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Russia in a charming rendition at the McCarter Theatre on Saturday night.Many audiences are surely familiar with the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare, as well as Prokofiev’s setting.

Eurpoa Galante, directed by violinist Fabio Biondi, performed a program of baroque concerti at the McCarter Theatre on a world tour that includes stops at some highly prestigious venues.Ever since Biondi formed his ensemble in 1990, he has been known for performing imaginative renditions of baroque favorites.

Noche Flamenca, one of Spain’s most successful touring companies, presented an evening of music and dance at the McCarter Theatre. The performance featured the acclaimed Soledad Barrio and guest artist Alejandro Granados.For many Americans, ‘flamenco’ means stereotypical Spanish dance. In reality, flamenco is a combination of poetry, music, and dance, with cross-cultural roots.

The Nutcracker is as familiar as holiday leftovers. Even in years when you decide to forgo seemingly obligatory performances of The Nutcracker, The Messiah, and other ‘seasonal’ works, you can’t escape hearing snippets of the music in shopping malls, elevators, or cell phone ring tones. Tchaikovksy's ballet adapts E.T.A.

When an ensemble of strong voices extends and nearly expends themselves, pouring out their artistry in tribute to Mozart’s genius, operagoers will stand during bows—eagerly. That is precisely what occurred during Opera New Jersey's July 11 performance of Don Giovanni. The cast received a standing ovation from a packed house, deservedly so.