“Like Water for Chocolate” premiered in 2023 at the American Ballet Theatre, and now it closes ABT Ballet‘s summer 2024 season with a breathtaking finale. This Christopher Wheeldon ballet, inspired by Laura Esquivel’s popular novel and film, beautifully illustrates the poignant love story of Tita and Pedro. Performed by Skylar Brandt and Herman Cornejo, the loving couple’s story is set against the enchanting landscapes, mysticism, and traditions of Old Mexico, guiding the audience through the protagonists’ lives from childhood to their final moments.

The ballet’s lyrical dances and dynamic ensemble scenes, paired with Broadway-style sets and costumes, created a feast for the senses. The smooth transitions through different eras and locations, often centered around Tita’s magical kitchen table, added layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative.

The flawless blend of music and dance heightened the emotional resonance of each scene. Mexican musical themes and indigenous instruments enriched the cultural tapestry of the production, bringing Esquivel’s story to life in a new way.

Brandt’s expressive and graceful movements conveyed Tita’s sorrow and heartache, while Cornejo’s commanding presence captured Pedro’s longing and anguish. Their performances, especially the stunning final pas de deux, were moments of pure enchantment.

This production is a significant achievement for ABT, being their largest to date with nearly 200 costumes, 250 props, and various accessories. The innovative use of puppetry, video projections, and multimedia elements added a rich layer to the storyline.

If you love the immersive quality of full-length, narrative ballets, ABT’s “Like Water for Chocolate” is a magical experience not to be missed.