<https://balletalert.invisionzone.com/topic/37387-new-york-critics-2012-13-season/#comment-322055>
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"A glaring mistake, for sure.  But on some level I have to agree with certain elements of Kourlas' review.  While I felt the standard of technique from both Semionova and Hallberg was out standing, breath taking at times even, I couldn't help feel that there was no air in either of their performances.  I can't quite put my finger on it or why, but there didn't seem to be a rapture between them.  Her Act II Odette was fluid, strong, secure (if a bit slow).  But I never felt her despair at her situation, and this was also especially true in the final Act.  Her pantomime that tells her \"story\" to Seigfried was cloudy and \"soft\".  Not clear.  And in her Black Swan I never saw the evil glitter in her eye.  The conspiracy, the contact with Rothbart and the ultimate victory over Seigfried.  I never saw her evil triumph.  For me, the choreography whether it is a beautiful arabesque penche' or many dazzling fouettes has to tell the story.  It can't just be \"choreography.\"  On the other side  Hallberg never seemed to connect with her.  His face at times looked like a mask.  I didn't see a deep joy in seeing who he thinks is his one love in Act III, and though his face did register the betrayal, it all came a bit late.  I didn't sense much melancholy in his Act I solo either.  Yet his dancing was superb and so here again there was much to look at.  And I have to agree with everyone that Gomes nearly stole the show.  Here was the ultimate display of allowing the choreography tell the story.  Never rushed, always adding something more to his power over the Princesses (and even the Queen Mother!).  We always understood the nastiness beneath his smooth demeanor. Here is a magician intent on destroying the love of our two lead characters.  I only wish the balance had been better somehow.  As for the rest of the performance, it was as good as it can get.  The corps was excellent, as were all the secondary leads, etc. And I agree with the poster who noted Simone Messmer as one of the \"big swans\".  Her attack, musicality, technique and stature all were in deep supply last night.  More than any dancer in recent memory, she reminds me of Cynthia Gregory.  Maybe  we'll see a Swan Queen from her someday soon? "
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