The Merry Widow presented by The Joffrey Ballet at Auditorium Theatre

Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended

"...Inspired by Franz Lehar’s 1907 operetta, Hynd’s ballet is the very essence of grand, dance-driven storytelling, with the choreographer finding the most modern-minded shorthand of gestures and movement (as opposed to outdated mime) to delineate character and plot. Created for the Australian Ballet in 1975, “The Merry Widow” also ideally captures a bygone era. And John Lanchbery’s glossy “adaptation” of Lehar’s score (played beautifully by the Chicago Sinfonietta, under the direction of Scott Speck) only enhances the pleasure."

Chicago Stage Review - Highly Recommended

"...Although the story is light on riveting content, the presentation is beautifully executed by this dazzling company of incredible dancers that render a delightfully endearing interpretation of this fanciful tale. Filled with silly slapstick minutia and whimsical romantic intrigue, The Merry Widow proves that a sophisticated ballet can be perfectly charming."

Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended

"...Hynd has given the ensemble glorious moments, whether as gallant members of the Pontevedran entourage or hellbent, high-kicking, skirt-tossing soubrettes making plays for the gentry. They’re impeccably costumed by Italian designer Roberta Guidi di Bagno, while the stenciled facades and imitation marble pillars of the first act, wisteria-laden garden of the second, and monumental cabaret setting of the third act, are also the gorgeous work of the exquisitely talented Di Bagno."