There were multiple moments of genius during this movement-adapted version of Roland Torpor's 1964 novel of the same name. Choreographer Arthur Pita is no stranger to adapting page to stage--his best-known work, The Metamorphosis, is based on the Kafka novella that also served as the basis for the iconic 80s horror flick, The Fly.
Normally not my preferred way to consume dance, but it was my last free night in NY and I adore ABT's multi-talented James Whiteside. Given a much more limited leash than expected, he did not disappoint. His fellow dancers (Cassandra Trenary, Kibrea Carmichael) lit up the stage...still thinking about the sparkly hooded she-demon and the smoking hot shag scene. There were also multiple musical high points as Frank Moon performed his own score with a variety of instruments, his voice and a couple of electronic helpers.
What didn't work was the trite ending and the weird toddler lawn jockey near the end...very French, indeed. My biggest complaint, however, was the ever present, casual cocaine use. I'm no Nancy Reagan, but this was unnecessary and inappropriate, especially given that El Chapo's federal trial less than a mile away is disrupting daily life by shutting down blocks and bridges.