Lincoln Center is timeless. When you step foot into the square you can’t help yourself from gawking.  The beauty of the central fountain and the majestic three buildings is laid out for the visitor’s pure enjoyment.  To glance into the Met Opera House and view the large chandelier with thousands of crystals that glimmer in the light of the evening is almost as magical as the performance about to take place inside. 

It’s Saturday at eight, prime time for the various ticket boxes within Lincoln Center.  Music, art, and patrons alike flock to the various houses at the Center.  The New York City Ballet is to the left of the central water fountain. Entering is like walking into a marble palace laden with opulence.  Walking up the large grandiose marble staircase brings on a feeling of excitement that I know all too well; the feeling of knowing that I am in for something “great.”  The New York City Ballet is known for their famous reproductions of Romeo and Juliet, The Magic Flute, and Swan Lake.

When I get to my seat I sit down and look out assessing my view of the stage.  It is perfect: slightly off from the center, but the full stage is perfectly in my line of vision.  I am not too far (the dancers won’t look like ants); but I am also not too close as to only see specific areas of the stage in my line of vision.  The lights are dimmed and the mustard yellow velvet curtain is pulled back.  The Ballet’s performance to Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Lady” was enchanting.  As the prima ballerina danced in a red Versace dress laden with flowers the audience was brought back in time, a time where elegance was paramount and the fluidity of movement put the audience into an unbreakable trance.

The next two performances were more modern and again emphasized the beauty and grace that the dancers had.  The dancers, wearing simple colors and costumes, showed the audience what minimalism was, striking the perfect harmony between grace and delicacy. 

As the intermission bell chimed the audience sat down with anticipation as orchestra members of the pit warmed up with segments of “America” and “Somewhere.”  In a matter of minutes the curtain opened to beautiful display of the characters in West Side Story.  The compilation of the pieces was the quintessential performance of the evening. 

Although many are not accustomed to viewing an assortment of works from the New York City Ballet this was one of the most rewarding, interesting, and enriching experiences that I have ever had.