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 2023 we embarked on our biggest project yet: Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring, performed from memory. With the help of actors Charlotte Ritchie and Karl Queensborough voicing the words of the composer and his collaborators, we dissected the iconic score with a newly-created dramatic and musical introduction. With the help of movement, design, lighting and newly-commissioned projections by Anouar Brissel, we illuminated 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 set the stage for a performance of the whole ballet entirely from memory, without sheet music, stands or chairs.
Jane Mitchell concept and script
Jane Mitchell and James Bonas directors
Anouar Brissel projections
David Bishop lighting
Iain Farrington music arrangements
