Mark Morris’ Acis and Galatea Enchants

Mark Morris’ Acis and Galatea Enchants

Janice Berman for San Francisco Classical Voice

In terms of plot, Acis and Galatea is the simplest opera choreographer Mark Morris has ever presented. The production is an otherwise elaborate affair whose intricacies, for the most part, enchant. Morris’ company is still one of the best on earth; at this point we could say the dancers have retired the title. Their musicality, technique, wit, grace, generosity, and zest are without par. And Morris has beautifully balanced this pastoral’s tenderness, sorrow, and humor (sometimes slapstick — no stretch for our choreographer) to create a memorable confection.