Aki Nishio, that is action: for everything ballet. Daughter of two star dancers, trained in Japan, America and Antwerp, she stands out as a soloist in iconic ballets, as a dance teacher and founder of her own ballet company, and as a valued choreographer. She is the driving force behind memorable ballet productions that Mechelen was fortunate to enjoy.
After 'The Nutcracker', which she rounded off festively in 2025, she now surprised young and old with her version of 'Snow White'. The Schouwburg was not completely full, but it buzzed with the enthusiasm of many young people. We too were curious. Detaching an icon like 'Snow White' from the wonder that Walt Disney made of it seems undoable. Imitating is not an option. Breathing a totally different life into it either. From all these possibilities, Aki created a delightful symbiosis.
There was a delightfully sweet Snow White in a bright yellow skirt and blue bodice. And she wielded her broom skillfully. Yes, there was a frightening wicked witch and an irresistible fiery red apple. And a beautiful, slender prince whom we would have liked to see in a more elaborate pas-de-deux at the finale.
Creative
They moved to music by Stravinsky, Moussorgsky and Shostakovich. Snow White's four companions wore tutus in the shape of giant flower petals. Together with one giant mushroom and a forest of bright green rays, this could suggest nature. The little animals were playful dancers and each one was clearly recognizable. The dwarves seemed to have stepped straight out of our contemporary world, in their oversized cardigans and funny, colorful hats. Mini-beds there were not, but occasionally genies!
Brussels City Ballet
It all seemed very playful but was driven by the training, discipline and dedication we rightfully associate with Brussels City Ballet, which Aki Nishio founded in 2022. With this potential of international stars, she comes on 25 April 2026 to cc Wolubilis and mid-June to Zwanenberg in Heist-o/d-Berg with 'Sleeping Beauty'. Hopefully these venues are more ballet-minded than Mechelen, where lesser gods command more attention...
A chat and selfie session in the foyer with happy prospective dancers is a good step in that direction.
