Mr. Bocca's Farewell

I have never seen the company like I have seen the company tonight. From the intense focus during the performance and the silent viewing from the wings by all to the joyous screaming and clapping of the curtain calls; it was a night to remember. Of course the event as most everyone (including my cab driver to the Met today) knows was Julio Bocca's farewell to ABT.

People packed the wings as the performance progressed trying to grab a last look at the legend that has been dancing in this company for 20 years. It's a little mind blowing to think that since I was born this incredible artist has been thrilling New York audiences with his dramatic dancing and comedic charm. All of that was on display tonight. "Manon" is one of the most dramatic ballets I have ever seen and as Julio cried over Alessandra's body as the curtain came down it was a much more emotional impact than usual. After the curtain went down the two of them stayed on the floor for a minute and cradled each other obviously relishing the final moments of their partnership together. I cannot even begin to imagine the emotions that had to have been flooding through both of them.

The audience response was thunderous to say the least. They had remained fairly subdued during the show but as the curtain came up the flashes began and the chanting didn't stop for about twenty minutes. As former partners, fellow dancers, and friends came and threw flowers at his feet (or his head) the audience never stopped screaming. If anything they just grew wilder. People starting screaming his name, throwing things (including a flag) and chanting for him to keep bowing. At one point he requested a beer and his dresser came carrying it to him. There he stood center stage of the Met, the legend that he is, drinking a beer in front of 3,500 people. Just a small example of his sense of humor.

Company members stayed on the stage for about thirty minutes continuously clapping and taking pictures. As the audience cleared out we all stood in silent anticipation waiting for Julio's parting words. They were brief but poignant. He showed how much love he has for this company and the people that have made this company what it was. He acknowledged the people who have been here since he has and the people who have just come in. He told us to put our heart on the stage for the audience to see and to enjoy it. My cab driver today asked me what kind of guy Julio was and whether he was nice or not. Without hesitation I said that he is the nicest most genuine guy and extremely humble. Both approachable in life and untouchable in his art . I feel so fortunate to have stood on the same stage as him.