An evening of music and dance were provided by the two titans of the respective genres in Columbus. Specifically, BalletMet of Columbus provided the sizzle on the floor, and the Columbus Jazz Orchestra provided the sizzle in the music. Although the show was staged at the Capitol Theater, home to many BalletMet performances, it was Byron Stripling, CJO leader that ran the dynamics of the show. Opening with familiar songs from the seventies pop group "Chicago" the band and dancers hit the stage running and never looked back. Mixing in uptempo jazz numbers as well as some sultry ones which allowed the dancers to strut their stuff, it was always entertaining no matter the tempo. Dancer Dustin James, an aquaintance of mine, was especially fine, and good to see old friend Jimmy Orrante in top form as well. Due to an injury, my friend Jackson Sarver was unable to dance in this production, and certainly his skills were missed. The musical highlight was "Get Right Church" which featured Stripling on vocals and Bobby Floyd on organ, stompin' out that fast 4/4 beat which gave the entire dance ensemble an incredible workout! Fascinating vintage film clips were provided by WOSU through out the show.
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