Second Thoughts

By Henry C. Mayer

Lovers of Beauty, Take Note

The Louisville Ballet will present three ballet pieces at the Brown Theater in February. The program will open with Shades of Gershwin. While once again enjoying such unforgettable, melodic pieces as "Our Love Is Here To Stay,""Embraceable You,""I Got Rhythm" and other Gershwin delights performed by talented artists, the Louisville Ballet dancers will make the music come to life.

The choreographer, William Soleau, said: "I had to pay my dues as a dancer before beginning work as a choreographer. I feel successful when the audience members feel what the performers are communicating on the stage. The dance is human poetry in its highest form.''

Gershwin may be America's greatest composer, at least for this century and perhaps for all time. Growing up strongly influenced by Tin Pan Alley and without graduating from high school, his genius is increasingly acclaimed. He has taken popular music and given it classical status.

The music of another 20th Century genius, Maurice Ravel, inspired Alun Jones to choreograph, "For Roberta," three movements of upbeat romance. Ravel's melodies reflect his joint French and Spanish parental heritage.

The program concludes with a world premiere, "Gloria," choreographed by company member Mikelle Bruzina, with music by Vivaldi. It promises to be inspirational.

Dates for the performances are February 25-28. Matinees are also available on Feb. 27 and 28.