I had the pleasure of seeing Nevada Ballet Theatre’s production of Romeo & Juliet at The Smith Center, and I was truly moved by the experience. From the first moment, the staging brought 15th-century Verona vividly to life — the period costumes, sweeping sets, and Prokofiev’s stirring score created an atmosphere of grandeur and heartbreak.
What stood out most to me was the company’s dramatic clarity — the duels, the family feuds of the Montagues and Capulets, and the passionate encounters between the lovers. Choreographer James Canfield beautifully balanced classical elegance with emotional depth, allowing every movement to tell part of the story. Each scene — from the vibrant marketplace to the tragic final moments — was full of visual beauty and emotional power.
The fight scenes were a true highlight — energetic, precise, and filled with tension. The dancers executed every clash with impressive control and intensity, bringing out the raw emotion and danger that drive the story forward. The choreography made these moments feel essential, not just thrilling, and they kept the audience completely captivated.
The cast gave heartfelt, standout performances. Michelle Meltzer was radiant as Juliet — graceful, expressive, and deeply moving. Benjamin Tucker’s Romeo captured youthful passion and sincerity, and together their chemistry was magnetic. Christina Ghiardi brought commanding presence and layered emotion to Lady Capulet, while Sergio Alvarez made a fierce and fiery Tybalt.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this production was how it allowed the music and movement to speak on their own. The quiet, emotional pauses — Juliet’s hesitation, the lovers’ final embrace — lingered long after the curtain fell.
Overall, Nevada Ballet Theatre’s Romeo & Juliet is a triumph — passionate, elegant, and emotionally charged. It’s a stunning reminder that even in a city known for spectacle, ballet can tell stories that are deeply human and profoundly moving. Bravo to the entire cast and creative team for bringing this timeless tale to life with such artistry and heart.