We have a weekend ahead of us with a new experience.  We’re going to attend a performance of “Swan Lake”, by the Kiev Ballet, at the National Center of the Performing Arts (NCPA).  But there are things to do before then.

Judy has a haircut scheduled, and I walk over to the Marriott for my exercise session.  We get home about the same time, and each do a little schoolwork.  We leave the apartment and taxi to a Marriott near the NCPA for dinner.  We have a coupon for a free buffet for two.  The food is great.  Every time we eat at a different restaurant in Asia, we see something new, either in the preparation of the foods, or an entirely new dish we haven’t seen before.  At this one, each table has a small portable hotpot.  Items to cook are at one of the buffet stations.  People throughout the restaurant are cooking their own fish, beef, vegetables, etc.  I manage to over-indulge myself on desserts.  I hope I can stay awake thru the ballet. 

We taxi over to the NCPA and work our way to the entrance.  The security is pretty heavy, with scanners, bag x-rays, and electronic wands.  It’s almost like the airport.  It’s a gorgeous building, inside and outside.  We have great seats and the ballet is wonderful.  The sets are elaborate, and the dancers are great.  This is my first ballet.  Judy has seen several Nutcracker presentations through the years in Arlington.  I’m trying to take in all the visual and musical moments. 

I wish I could take credit for this picture. It’s a beautiful building.

The orchestra overall did a great job.  They pulled a little in a few spots.  I enjoyed watching the conductor trying to isolate the problem and pull the group back together.