Bernheimer’s Not on His Toes

Martin Bernheimer’s review of “Napoli” by the Royal Danish Ballet (“A Fleet, Stylish ‘Napoli,’ ” June 11) confirmed his unerring sense of taste: directly the opposite of mine. He liked it! According to Bernheimer, the program consists of an “inspired fusion of Italian street rituals, florid Gallic accents and polite Danish manners.” I witnessed two acts of arm-waving pantomime, followed by a third act of muted leg movement. I understand why audiences usually have only the third act inflicted upon them. That act, at least, attempts to pass for dance.

Bernheimer found “soft-edged precision and flowing unanimity of phrase” in the corps dancers. I observed sloppy and uncoordinated movement and line. . . . Authentic, perhaps; fitting, not at all. In contrast, Bernheimer seldom misses an opportunity to berate performances of the Kirov. I found the Kirov to be one of the most technically proficient groups we have had the privilege to view at the Performing Arts Center.

I say: Let’s invite the Kirov to return next year. Let’s invite the Royal Danish Ballet in 27 years. Most of all, let’s get Bernheimer to review these ballets before they arrive; it would save me a lot of time. If he likes a performance, I will avoid it, and vice versa.

HAROLD R. DILBECK

Tustin