London City Ballet Revives Classic Ballet with Resurgence Programme
London City Ballet, founded in 1978, has made a triumphant return to the stage with its Resurgence programme, showcasing a mix of historic revivals, new works, and premieres. Artistic Director Christopher Marney’s passion for the company’s original incarnation is evident throughout the show, with vintage film clips featuring Princess Diana and headlines documenting the company’s closure in 1996. The diverse group of dancers breathe new life into classic ballet pieces, demonstrating their unwavering dedication and belief in their craft.
A Glimpse Into the Past: Historic Revivals and Rare Gems
The programme kicks off with Ashley Page’s Larina Waltz from 1993, a lively and elegant piece filled with intricate turns, dynamic poses, and impressive jumps. This rarely seen gem sets the tone for the evening, showcasing the dancers’ technical prowess and artistry. Kenneth MacMillan’s Ballade, choreographed in 1972, offers a glimpse into the choreographer’s early work and features a captivating love triangle that unfolds with lyrical grace. Guest artist Alina Cojocaru brings a depth of emotion to the role, captivating the audience with her nuanced performance.
The evening continues with a mesmerizing excerpt from MacMillan’s Concerto, danced with precision and gravitas by Isadora Bless and Joseph Taylor. The slow movement of the piece highlights the dancers’ ability to convey emotion through movement, drawing the audience into a world of beauty and passion. These historic revivals serve as a tribute to the rich history of ballet and the enduring legacy of the art form.
New Horizons: Premieres by Marney and Smith
Artistic Director Christopher Marney takes the stage with his new work, Eve, set to a commissioned score by Jennie Muskett. The piece offers a contemporary take on ballet, blending expressionistic drama with intricate choreography. The dancers bring Marney’s vision to life, infusing the piece with energy and emotion. Arielle Smith’s Five Dances, set to the music of John Adams, presents a series of short episodes that showcase the dancers’ versatility and skill. The vibrant costumes and dynamic choreography create a sense of urgency and excitement, drawing the audience in with each movement.
The dancers, dressed in half-skirts, move with a sense of freedom and fluidity, embodying a mix of nymphs and farmers as they navigate the space with grace and precision. Each movement is deliberate and expressive, telling a story through dance that captivates the audience from start to finish. The premiere works add a contemporary flair to the evening, highlighting the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons in the world of ballet.
London City Ballet’s Resurgence programme is a testament to the enduring power of classic ballet and the talent of its dancers. Through a mix of historic revivals and new works, the company celebrates its rich legacy while embracing the future with creativity and innovation. Artistic Director Christopher Marney’s vision shines through in every piece, showcasing the beauty and artistry of ballet in all its forms. As the dancers take their final bow, the audience is left in awe of the magic that unfolds on stage, a reminder of the timeless allure of this beloved art form.