Dancetheatre Blends Old and New Works

Although no be-ribboned toe shoes graced the stage Friday night at L.A. Valley College’s Little Theatre, the beauty, allure and rigorous training inherent in classical ballet was on clear view when the Francisco Martinez Dancetheatre presented an evening of old and new works.

Mexican-born, locally based choreographer Martinez served up his version of tango in the 1994 “Tangos Sans Tango.” A tribute to the late composer Astor Piazzolla, the five-part work, set to taped music, was more loving than lush, more sculptural than sensual.

Highlights included Veronica Caudillo’s solo, “Anxiety,” the barefoot dancer stealthily executing razor-sharp turns, whipping her head with emotional abandon. Frances Zappella breezed through her solo, “Despertar,” with arm outstretched, occasionally leaning to the point of near-falling. The nine-member company proved jubilant in “Fear,” punctuated by unison leaps and same-sex partnering.

Heating up the stage in “Primal Ground,” Martinez’s India-inspired premiere, was the color red. Flame-licked fabric panels hung from the ceiling, while the scarlet-clad company conjured up the swift, tiny steps and florid finger movements of the Far East. The six-part opus, set to a Michael Nyman string quartet, teemed with fiery energy and snaky, slithery movements.

Standouts were the swivel-hipped Diana MacNeil spinning on her knees; the elegantly tall Roger Gonzalez Hibner bobbing and weaving; a mercurial Bogar Martinez; and Phaedra Jarrett, a dynamo of twirling delight. Spectacularly joyous, this work featured exhilarating lifts, leaps and entwined circles.

The previously reviewed “Places” completed the program. Now in its 16th year, Francisco Martinez Dancetheatre continues its artistic journey with vigor.