The Rite of Spring
‘The work of a mad man!’ –Puccini
Some critics say, The Rite of Spring has lost the shock factor it once had, competing with more thrilling works which have taken to the stage since its premiere in 1913. However, if well executed this piece certainly disturbs you to your core!
Igor Stravinsky’s ballet brings to life his vision of ‘a solemn pagan rite: sage elders, seated in a circle watch a young girl; the chosen one, dance herself to death. The elders were sacrificing her to propitiate the god of spring’. This vision was inspired by paintings of pagan rituals and Russian folklore.
The work rose to fame after one of the most scandalous premieres of the 20th Century, causing riots at the theatre in Paris. Perhaps caused by the shock of the intense rhythmic music, or the modern choreography by emerging dancer Vaslav Nijinsky.
Upon witnessing the second performance of The Rite of Spring, Giacomo Puccini described it as ‘The work of a madman’. Opera North and Phoenix Dance Theatre’s new production certainly lives up to standard, as they present this intense performance.
A packed house gathered on Saturday night to hear the final Leeds performance of this masterpiece. As the house lights went down and the famous mesmerising bassoon solo started, the tension built, drawing the audience into the depths of the pit.
The production was staged simply, with minimal lighting, plain white costumes and red/green painted hands. From the moment the curtain rose, it was clear this ballet was about two elements, Music and Dance. With nothing to distract the audience from the hypnotic relationship between Dancers and Orchestra.
The orchestra of 61 members, a savage beast, soon started to roar and shriek, encapsulating the theatre in sound. The restrictions of the size of the pit had players doubling, sometimes tripling instruments. However, this never hindered the quality of sound. Meanwhile, the eight dancers were enthralled by the power of the score, visually representing this menacing pagan ritual.
The final shocking shrills from the orchestra made the audience erupt in enthusiastic applause. This broke the extreme tension created by this wild ballet, allowing everyone a chance to catch their breath.
Opera North and Phoenix Dance Theatre have reenvisaged this ballet, to give audiences a chance to experience the original hype of that famed opening night. In doing so, they have brought this much loved, innovative and genius work to new heights. Overall, this is a must-see performance of Opera North’s 2018/19 season. As this production puts fire back into the belly of the beast that is The Rite of Spring.
*See the next performances in Manchester (8th March), Newcastle (16th March), Nottingham (22 March). Book online at https://www.operanorth.co.uk/
PRE14064363- HBASHR022 