Facts
The Rite of Spring: Pictures from Pagan Russia in Two Parts is a Russian ballet by composer Igor Stravinsky. The version recreated by the Joffrey Ballet is considered in this paper. The interpretation uses original choreography by Vaslav Nijinsky and music by Igor Stravinsky; the ballet is reconstructed and staged by Millicent Hodson. The premiere took place at the Prague National Theater in 1987. The ballet consists of two acts: Adoration of the Earth and the Sacrifice.
Storyline
The ballet has a pronounced storyline that talks about pagan traditions. The choreography uses form and line to create depth through groups of people in dance, their interaction, or rejection. The dances of both acts are largely repetitive, and the choreography uses the dancers’ phases of action and inaction to create a monotonous sense of ritual. The ballet reaches its most incredible emotional intensity at the moment of the victim’s dance due to an increasing tempo. This energetic and dynamic production immerses the audience in cultural penetration.
The Most Important Dance Parts
The climactic scenes involving the sage and the sacrificed woman were the most important. Scenes have a heightened emotional impact as they involve light, sound, and increased tempo. The dancers are highly skilled; it is noticeable as they perfect even the most complex movements.
Music and Costumes
The original music creates an atmosphere and tone; it is disturbing, ragged, and loud, justified by the emphasized cruelty and inhumanity in the chosen storyline. The costumes reflect traditional Slavic culture, consistent with the storyline. The movements under the suits are visible since they are all associated with jumping and sharp arm swings. The costumes are very rigid, especially for dancers representing tribes and ancestors; this choice is explained by the need to emphasize cruelty.
Lighting and Technology
Light is essential in the dance: in the first act, it is warm; in the second, it is cold. The warm light emphasizes the rituals aimed at the arrival of spring and the rebirth of life, especially in the climax with the sage. The emphasis on death justifies the coldness of the second act due to sacrifice. The dance does not use props; the effect is achieved only through costumes. The dance does not use technological means; the reference to the original work and the recreation of the ancient pagan culture justifies this.