Rite of Spring Suite

A work for 4 dancers

The original Rite of Spring, choreographed by the famous Nijinsky, was inspired by a dream that composer Stravinsky had about a maiden who sacrificed herself by dancing to her death.  Her sacrifice, an ancient primitive ritual, was to ensure that Spring would arrive the following year.  In Rite of Spring Suite, Castagna delves into the essence of the dance and focuses on 4 main characters. The maiden, the elder, the witch and a male who represents the composer himself.  Young love, community pressure and the final sacrifice are all explored.  For many choreographers, creating their version of this famous piece, is an actual rite of maturity.

Choreography: John M Castagna

Composer: Stravinsky

Costumes: Anda Bernovska

Dancers: Stephanie Kim, Micah Moch, Gaida Paulovska, Evan Swenson

Videographer: David Sukonick

Filmed at Fais do do Theatre, LA, CA

Nominated by Dance Magazine for “Video of the Month”