Hans van Manen's sensitive pas de deux, Trois Gnossiennes, is an emblematic work from his enormous repertoire. The ballet, choreographed for the enchanting, melancholic music of Satie, tells a tale of resignation, trust and harmony. Manen envisaged the female role for ballet dancer Mária Aradi, a soloist with the Dutch National Ballet who later served as its First Ballet Master for several decades.
In Robert North's ballet Troy Game, originally written for male dancers, the 'Amazons' treat the audience to humour and a spectacular dance experience, showing that they too can handle the difficult, masculine series of movements. Another twist on the author's intentions is the ironic presentation of masculinity and the 'macho spirit' expressed through dance. Falling Angels, JiříKylian's suggestive choreography for the ritualistic drum music of Steve Reich, shows the connection between the existential difficulties of being a woman and the female dancer's 'pursuit of perfection. It is a study of the two basic but contradictory components of every work of art, the duality of discipline and freedom. It is 'a piece about our profession', as the creator says.
A fiery, energetic piece composed by van Manen for music by Piazzolla will close the evening. This is one of the choreographer's best-known and most deservedly popular works: the superb music and dance evoke at once the pulsing of the big city and a world of passionate instincts.

Presented by: National Dance Theatre