The Rite of Spring
An iconic ballet of the 20th century: Stravinsky’s groundbreaking score and MacMillan’s bold choreography depict the violent birth pangs of spring.
Photos
When to see it
Part of a mixed Programme, These works are performed together
Chroma / New Dawson / The Rite Of Spring
One hundred years of visionary ballet – from Stravinsky’s 20th-century masterpiece to innovative choreography by Wayne McGregor and David Dawson.
Booking for 9 November 2013 - 23 November 2013 opens
- Booking opens 9 July 2013 at 10.00am for General Public.
- Booking opens 11 June 2013 at 10.00am for Friends of Covent Garden.
- Booking opens 4 June 2013 at 10.00am for Supporting Friends.
- Booking opens 31 May 2013 at 10.00am for Premium 1 Friends.
- Booking opens 30 May 2013 at 10.00am for Premium 2 Friends.
Introduction
A primeval community marks the arrival of spring with celebratory and sacrificial rituals.
News and features
Creator and Muse: Choreographers, dancers and the roles they make together
From The Rite of Spring to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, ballet's specially-created roles.
Gallery: Kenneth MacMillan's career in photos
Take a look at behind the scenes images of one of ballet's great choreographers.
Background
The premiere of Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring in 1913 was a defining moment in 20th-century art. The challenging avant-garde nature of the work prompted rioting in the audience, the music drowned out by boos and shouts. The original choreography was created by Vaslav Nijinsky on Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes. Over the last century, numerous other versions have been created – a testament to the enduring power of Stravinsky’s extraordinary score.
Kenneth MacMillan created his own distinctive version in 1962, the year of Stravinsky’s 80th birthday. MacMillan’s visceral and energetic choreography follows the irregular rhythms and driving pulse of the music. With designs by Australian artist Sidney Nolan inspired by Aboriginal art, the ballet explores elemental human concerns: birth and death, sacrifice and renewal. The role of the sacrificial Chosen One, characterized by strong, angular movements, was created on Monica Mason, former Director of The Royal Ballet.
Thanks to
Generous philanthropic support from
Richard and Delia Baker
Credits
| Choreography | Kenneth MacMillan |
| Set Designer | Sidney Nolan |
| Costume Designer | Sidney Nolan |
| Lighting Designer | John B Read |
Related links
- www.kennethmacmillan.com Kenneth MacMillan's The Rite of Spring
- www.guardian.co.uk The Rite of Spring: 'The work of a madman'
- www.bbc.co.uk Listen: Paris 1913 and The Rite of Spring
- www.youtube.com Watch: The Rite of Spring rehearsal
