Party Scene:
Generally, very good everyone--
Boys, make sure you stay on the gray part of the floor-- don't go on the black-- during the leap frog. You also came too close to the edge during the march.
All boys watch your line during the "grand battement, salute, chasse, grand battement" step.
Zaida, make sure you find Marie and get behind her right away after the gift-giving, before the clock. That way, you won't run into each other!
All kids look more sharply at the Dr. Stahlbaum when he stomps his foot after you've chased Marie and the pocket-watch!
Battle Scene:
Remember how sharp and strong you were by the time we got to the end of the rehearsal period in the studio? We need to get that back! I'm seeing a lot of soldiers being way too soft in their movements, not turning sharply or moving their bodies in one piece. Don't make me have to call a special rehearsal to get you all back on track, please! Hold yourselves strongly from your stomachs, move sharply and strongly and keep those lines clean.
Act 2:
Angels: Very good, but the "doors" lines weren't very straight. Remember to go only as far as the girl next to you. Also, many of you have started doing a little "hop" when you turn into face center on count 8, just before moving into the "doors" section. I'm glad you're turning clearly on the correct count, but please don't jump or hop-- just turn.
Polichinelles and Candy Canes: I'm sorry to say that I still want you to bow more quickly and energetically to the Sugarplum Fairy. You only have ONE count to bow, ONE count to recover and run to your next formation. Energy!!!
Candy Canes: A few of you had your hoops too low in your first pose on the knee. Keep your bottom arm parallel to the floor, and if in doubt, raise it higher! Better too high than too low. ALL need to watch the soloist at the end to stand up with him before you bow. Some of the solo guys stand up really quickly, so be ready.
Polichinelles: Boy Polis need to keep their line better (behind the girls, during all the balances, pique arabesques, etc.). ALL Polis need cleaner arms and more crossed balances.
