PAUL THE ORACLE

PAUL THE ORACLE

In a world premiere, Spring Dance presents The Oracle – the latest work from renowned Australian choreographer Meryl Tankard.
Performed by Paul White, winner of the 2008 Helpmann Award for Best Male Dancer, The Oracle is inspired by the haunting work of Scandinavian painter Odd Nerdrum. Driven by the powerful score of Igor Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring, this thrilling new production takes on the conflicting forces of Nature and Man.
One of the most controversial works in performance history, The Rite of Spring was choreographed by legendary dancer of the Ballet Russes, Vaslav Nijinksy. Its 1913 premiere literally caused riots in the aisles of the theatre.
In this Sydney Opera House and Malthouse Melbourne commission, Tankard explores the world of Nijinsky to create an oracle for our times.
‘We are rewarded by Ms Tankard’s gift for digging deeper into basic instincts.’ THE NEW YORK TIMES
Concept and Direction: Meryl Tankard
Choreography: Meryl Tankard and Paul White
Visual Designer: Régis Lansac
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Performer: Paul White
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australian Council, its arts funding and advisory body, and by the Keir Foundation. Original development assistance through Critical Path’s Responsive Program.
Duration: 50 minutes with no interval
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