And what better way to open a show than synchronized excellence of six Rockettes sweeping through “A Tribute to Irving Berlin.” A dancer who could easily join that line of beautiful legs, the willowy, self-poised Ann Reinking colored in the 61st Capezio Dance Award Winner Tommy Tune's many attributes as a friend, choreographer, director and dancer and his legendary long legs. Another recipient of Capezio’s gratitude was Nygel Lythgoe and Dizzy Feet for his dedication to inserting dance into schools everywhere.

The evening's buoyant program put together by Anne Marie DeAngelo spotlighted dancers from the realm of ballet, hip hop, ballroom, tap, modern dance and circus acrobatics. Misty Copeland whisked through Tchaikovsky's “Pas de Deux” partnered and framed by another ABT dancer, the fine Jared Matthews.

Couples (Travis and Jaimee Tuft, Russ and Katusha Wilder) whirled through Dance Sport Ballroom episodes and able-bodied Bad Boys Of Dance led by Rasta Thomas flew though airborne combinations twisted around funky hip-hop. Subtle and romantic, Cartier Williams contributed fluttery taps suggesting a tap dancer of fine potential.

All the performers brought a sense of individuality and devotion to the show including the attractively edgy Noah Racey and Jeffrey Denman. In a nod to Broadway great Bob Fosse, Jennifer Dunne, David Warren and Dana Moore danced his signature Manson Trio from “Pippin."

Two dancers who helped promote hip hop as a concert form, Mr. Wiggles and Crazy Legs ginned up excitement. Mr. Wiggles broke into astonishingly crisp isolations in “Industrial Rhythm” while Rock Steady Crew dropped and spun in easy, looping turns.

Exaggerated skis supported Steven Marshall and Nicole Loizides, two MOMIX dancers, as they hinged forward parallel to the skis issuing great oohs in “Millennium Skiva."

During the final turn, a cavalcade of performers crowded a happy stage proving that Capezio shoes form the bridge between all forms of dance.
EYE ON THE ARTS, NY -- Celia Ipiotis