Watch Monica Mason on The Rite of Spring

‘Kenneth never copied anybody in anything. The Rite of Spring was unlike anything else he’d ever made. He told me to come along ‘prepared for anything’. Monica Mason

The Rite of Spring is one of the most famous 20th-century ballets – one that caused a riot when first performed in Paris in 1913. The Royal Ballet’s version was choreographed by Kenneth MacMillan for the company in 1962. He choose young Royal Ballet dancer Monica Mason, as his sacrificial maiden, a role that requiresd great stamina, force and attack. Now Dame Monica is Director of The Royal Ballet, and is reviving the ballet with male dancers in the lead.

Watch her discuss how she helped create the role with MacMillan, and as she passes on her knowledge to Royal Ballet principal Steven McRae and artist Valentino Zucchetti.

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Scènes de ballet / Voluntaries / The Rite of Spring
28 May-11 June 2011