Afterparty

Usually, the term "afterparty" conjures visions of rock n' roll excess followed by sordid tales of swinging from chandeliers, free-flowing Taittinger and white powder-filled bathtubs. The afterparty I attended on Friday night was slightly less debaucherous, but in my view, no less fun and exciting.

"Drinks with Dracula" followed the Atlanta Ballet's brilliant production of "Dracula", and consisted of a meet and greet with the dancers as well as freely-flowing libations and incredible edibles.

The dancers who seemed larger-than-life onstage were gracious and humble off. I already have my favorites after seeing just two performances, and they include Kristine Necessary - a joyful, lyrical dancer with boundless energy and a great smile; Christian Clark - a simply beautiful young man with elevation rivaling a young Baryshnikov; Tara Lee - an exquisite technician who creates a total character; Jonah Hooper, whose "Dracula" was otherworldly as he slithered across the floor and down the scaffolding and seemed about ten feet tall onstage; and Kelly Tipton, a stunning young woman who reminded me of the Balanchine ballerinas of my day. While the event was, in essence, a "suck up to the patrons" type of fete, not one of the dancers in attendance acted like it was a chore to be there.

It was also a treat to meet John McFall, the artistic director of the company, and Sharon Story, ballet mistress (who I swear I have crossed paths with in a former life).

I am ever grateful to my friend James for allowing me to accompany him to this wonderful evening!