Why you have to see Rhapsody / Two Pigeons: Reason #1

Steven McRae

BARYSHNIKOV. The lead male role in Rhapsody was created for Mikhail Baryshnikov, and therefore incorporates the virtuosity for which he was famous. Baryshnikov had long wanted to have Ashton create a role on him, and was hoping that it would be in Ashton's more typically English understated style, but Ashton seized the opportunity to capitalize on the dancer's strengths (he always did this when choreographing) and made it a bravura part. Baryshnikov was reportedly disappointed. 







Here's Tetsuya Kumakawa performing the solo:

https://youtu.be/vvax9vFex-8 

and Sergei Polunin not apparently having any qualms about the bravura nature of the finale: https://youtu.be/hKpIImwNWJU 
 

 

The Royal Ballet is relaying this program live to cinemas in January (January 31 at 1255 in Cineplex and Landmark Cinemas in Canada).

To find a location and screening date, near you, use the Royal Opera House search function (although the listings are not always reliable): http://www.roh.org.uk/showings/two-pigeonsrhapsody-live-2016

Dancers

• Natalia Osipova
• Steven McRae 

If you love ballet, please check out my season of outstanding ballet trips by clicking here.

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