BBC Proms 2023: The Rite of Spring

Aurora brings its signature ‘by heart’ approach to The Rite of Spring for a once-in-a-lifetime project as part of this year’s BBC Proms.

This summer Aurora returns to the BBC Proms for its greatest challenge to date: a world-first performance by heart of Stravinsky’s iconic ballet The Rite of Spring. Harnessing the full potential of an orchestra performing from memory, Aurora’s Rite promises a revelatory new take on Stravinsky’s masterpiece.

The premiere of the Rite in 1913 was the scandal that sounded the beginning of modern music – a riot onstage, as well as off. In the first half of this very special concert, we invite listeners under the skin of the iconic score with a newly-created dramatic and musical introduction,  featuring actors Charlotte Ritchie and Karl Queensborough voicing the words of the composer and his collaborators. With the help of movement, design, lighting and newly-commissioned projections by Anouar Brissel, we illuminate the context and ideas behind the piece’s creation, its unprecedented use of rhythm, harmony and dissonance, and the story of its notorious premiere. This unique living programme note sets the stage for a performance of the whole ballet entirely from memory, without sheet music, stands or chairs. 

Don’t miss what promises to be an unforgettable highlight of this Proms season. 

Aurora Orchestra is grateful to the following individuals and organisations for their generous support of this project: Nicholas and Margo Snowman, Richard and Rosamund Bernays, Liz Forgan, Louise Kaye, Michael and Rita Laven, Jonathan Deakin and James Marsh, Richard and Helen Sheldon, Suzanne Szczetnikowicz, Eduardo Tamraz, Garrick Charitable Trust and The Leche Trust. Aurora’s performance is dedicated to the memory of Nicholas Snowman OBE, who died earlier this year.

‘What next from memory for this peerless ensemble? The Rite of Spring perhaps? If anyone can do it, [Aurora] certainly could.’ (Evening Standard)