Time Out New York’s spunky and enviably hip dance editor Gia Kourlas is in Newsday with a review of American Ballet Theatre’s opening gala:

“A gala without a gimmick is a rare event, but American Ballet Theatre managed to present something classier – save a tediously pained dying swan – than the usual fare at its opening-night showcase Wednesday.

A celebration of both the work of choreographer Michel Fokine and the anniversary of Alessandra Ferri’s 20th year with the company, the program included works by Jerome Robbins and Jir? Kyli?n, as well as a couple of blockbuster pas de deux. Even the inevitable trills of untended mobile phones couldn’t put a damper on the largely phenomenal dancing gracing the stage.”

This is the first I’ve seen Gia in Newsday, though I’ve enjoyed her take-no-prisoners reviews on Danceview Times in recent years. I hope this is a regular gig as she is one of the franker and more fearless voices I’ve encountered–certainly a woman who knows her own mind.