“In 1986, I choreographed ‘Romeo and Juliet’ for company ballerina Karen Gabay in the title role of Juliet,” said Dennis Nahat, the artistic director and choreographer for Ballet San Jose, who also plays the role of Friar Laurence.

Gabay will appear once again in the title role with principal dancer Maykel Solas, who made his company debut as Romeo in the Ballet San Jose 2006 production.

“When it was originally choreographed on me, I was in my 20s.” Gabay said. “Now I’m in my ’40s.’ You take on a different perspective and approach, emotionally.”

Karen Gabay might be in her 40s, but she still looks like she’s in her 20s, and when she dances she can appear even younger. I’m looking forward to seeing her dance this again! If I’m seated where I usually am, I’ll have a great view!

RTWT

Here you can see Karen Gabay dance, including a snippet from R&J:

I love the “nobody bothered me” line … I’m a rather extreme introvert (contrary to what some folks think; just because I bare it all here online, and can play oboe & English horn and oboe in front of a crowd of people doesn’t mean I’m an extrovert. Trust me!). Playing an instrument works so well for me. I just do my job. And I LOVE my job. I sit with a crowd of people, but we are mostly playing music together. And if I choose to isolate myself during breaks (I frequently do that), no one seems to be annoyed by it.

Anyway, check out the video. And do check out Ballet San Jose’s Romeo and Juliet. (Karen is dancing the first and final performances.)