M is for Melody Herrera and Marie Antoinette

All eyes will be on
principal dancer Melody Herrera on Feb. 26, the opening night of Houston Ballet’s full-length rendition of Marie. Choreographed and directed by Stanton Welch, this classical ballet captures the essence of the notorious Queen Marie Antoinette. Here, Herrera spills about this must-see

ballet. —Lauren Levinson

 

DS: How are you learning about Marie Antoinette?

 

Melody Herrera:
I’ve read biographies, watched movies and looked at drawings. The country depicted her as a monster for being a selfish, extravagant spender, but I’ve found she was a charming person and a caring mother. I think she was naïve, living in a bubble in Versailles.

 

DS: What’s been challenging about this process?

 

MH:
The controversies that surrounded her! She’s been called the first real victim of bad press. It’s hard to know what was true.

 

DS: Do you relate to her?

 

MH:
I sympathize with her. She arrived alone to a country at age 14 and felt isolated. Young dancers can connect to that because we move away to take on professional careers.

 

DS: How has it been working with Stanton Welch?

 

MH:
Wonderful. I understand his direction and relate to his musicality really well.

 

DS: What’s it like having a ballet created on you?

 

MH:
It’s like having tailor-made clothing. I feel free to take chances.

 

DS: What’s a fun scene?

 

MH:
There’s a food fight onstage!

 

DS: Favorite costume?

 

MH:
I love this flowy, off-white dress with embroidered flowers and a blue sash. I would get married in this dress!