An Afternoon of Honor 

The Charlottesville Ballet and Oratorio Society of Virginia held an excellent performance of dance and song on Nov. 9, on PVCC’s Dickinson Main Stage Theatre. Entitled “Salute: An Afternoon of Honor, Remembrance, Music, and Dance,” the program was dedicated to American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines in light of the upcoming Veterans Day. The artists gave their time and talents to put on an unforgettable show in honor of those who have sacrificed so much for this country. 

The opening of the curtain revealed the Oratorio Society preparing to sing the “Star-Spangled Banner” before the ballet took the stage, and they delivered a rousing performance. The audience stood for the flag unprompted as the national anthem began. The performers received raucous applause from the full house, and it was evident from that point on that it was going to be an event to remember. 

The selected pieces for the ballet were widely varied but appropriately themed. The first dance, called “The Tender Land,” was described in the program: “The choreography of ‘The Tender Land’ captures imagery of the veterans whose souls are enshrined in our sacred and hallowed lands in ceremonial respect. We pray their peace lies within the tender land.” Striking a more somber tone when contrasted with the triumphant opener, the emotion could be felt in the room and viewed on the faces of those in attendance. 

The next two pieces continued the theme of remembrance, with “Intaglio” giving “a glimpse into a moment of reunion felt by those who have been apart” according to the program, and “Valhalla,” named for the Great Hall overseen by the Norse god Odin for warriors who have fallen on the battlefield.

The finale was called “A Military Fanfare.” Including “America the Beautiful” and the “Armed Forces Medley” among other incorporated pieces, the dancers saved their best performance for last. Veterans of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines stood to be honored by the audience as their service songs played to cheers and thunderous applause. It was a beautiful and rewarding afternoon for those in attendance, and an honorable tribute to those who have honored us with their service.