The mysterious Arabian woman makes a statement in her slow-paced movements and long balances en pointe
Amidst the spirited atmosphere of the Kingdom of Sweets, a captivating woman emerges amongst the celebrating ambassadors from around the world. With deliberate, slow-paced movements, soaring leg extensions, and poised balances, the Arabian woman entertains Clara and commands the Kingdom’s attention in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker.
Originating the role for Welch’s Nutcracker, Principal Yuriko Kajiya worked closely with the artistic director in the studio before its 2016 premiere. “What’s amazing about Stanton is that he molds the choreography based on the dancer he is working with and of course, their strengths,” Kajiya says of the choreographic process.
Believing one of Kajiya’s greatest strengths as balancing en pointe, Welch includes a moment for the Arabian woman to balance on one leg for an extended period. To achieve such an impressive task, Kajiya explains, “your leg has to be like a nail grounding into the floor.”
And not only does it take physical prowess, but mentality also plays a large role. She continues, “right before I balance, I very often take a deep breath then I let go of my hands. To be calm is definitely key.”
To achieve such an impressive task, one must have physical and mental resilience. Kajiya shares her secret to balancing en pointe, “before the balance, you have to, what I call, ‘zen.’” She takes a deep breath to release all the thoughts in her mind so she can solely focus on her balance.
But exactly how does one achieve such poise while balancing on one foot? Kajiya explains, “there is a part of our body that has to be very grounded, but more so, you’re trying to lift your hip and your upper body.” These two opposing forces give her stability as she balances en pointe.
Symbolic of the coffee that the Arabian lion ambassador offers to Clara, the music and choreography can be compared to the experience of savoring the scent of freshly brewed coffee, enticing one to follow its aromatic trail. The Arabian section stands in stark contrast to Act II’s other dances. Kajiya notes, “all of a sudden it’s mysterious – not just the movement, but the music, the lighting, the atmosphere; everything changes when it comes to Arabian.”
By Kharma Grimes (Republished from Houston Ballet’s 2023 Nutcracker program)