DGV: Danse à grande vitesse
Christopher Wheeldon channels the hurtling momentum of Michael Nyman’s music in choreography of thrilling propulsion.
When to see it
Part of a mixed Programme, These works are performed together
Serenade / Sweet Violets / DGV
A mixed programme of exhilarating contrasts, from a dark Victorian melodrama to a celebration of hi-tech modernity.
Booking for 14 May 2014 - 26 May 2014 opens
- Booking opens 8 April 2014 at 10.00am for General Public.
- Booking opens 18 March 2014 at 10.00am for Friends of Covent Garden.
- Booking opens 28 February 2014 at 10.00am for Supporting Friends.
- Booking opens 26 February 2014 at 10.00am for Premium 1 Friends.
- Booking opens 25 February 2014 at 10.00am for Premium 2 Friends.
Background
MGV (Musique à grande vitesse) by Michael Nyman was commissioned by the Festival de Lille to commemorate the inauguration of the TGV high-speed train line in France in 1993. Christopher Wheeldon describes the music as ‘open and full of air’, and in DGV: Danse à grande vitesse he matches its hurtling momentum with equally exhilarating choreography: ‘I wanted to capture that feeling you get when you are travelling – of being suspended in time and space’.
The ballet conveys the timeless romance of travel, alongside the wonder of modern technology – a theme reflected in Jean-Marc Puissant’s abstract and dramatic designs. Against sheets of steel that curve upwards at the edges of the stage, the corps de ballet evokes the dynamic rhythms of technology, as well as more organic shapes. Four exquisite pas de deux track the music’s journey through shifting physical and sound landscapes. DGV was created for The Royal Ballet in 2006 and was nominated for an Olivier Award.
Credits
| Choreography | Christopher Wheeldon |
| Composer | Michael Nyman |
| Set Designer | Jean-Marc Puissant |
| Costume Designer | Jean-Marc Puissant |
| Lighting Designer | Jennifer Tipton |
Related links
- www.chesternovello.com Michael Nyman's MGV (Musique à Grande Vitesse)
- www.roh.org.uk Christopher Wheeldon – Royal Ballet Artistic Associate
