MILAN, ITALY – Three masterpieces from different periods of the twentieth century mark the first event of the La Scala Ballet after the summer break — a true tribute to dance. A symbol of this is Harald Lander’s Études, a refined representation of the dancer’s arduous years of training, culminating in the perfect fusion of art and technique. The work is arranged and orchestrated by Knudåge Riisager from Carl Czerny’s Studies for Piano.
Returning to La Scala after more than twenty years, Études opens as a showcase for the entire Corps de Ballet, with its irresistible crescendo. It represents an important debut for the Company’s current artists and younger generations. Due to its complexity and the technical precision it demands, this production is entrusted only to a select group of companies worldwide.
The cast includes twenty-four dancers (twelve in white, twelve in black), twelve male dancers, and four principals. In the opening performance, Nicoletta Manni, Timofej Andrijashenko, Nicola Del Freo, and Marco Agostino will feature as the principal cast.
Petite Mort. Photograph: Brescia e Amisano © Teatro alla Scala 2019
The heart of Jiří Kylián’s triptych Petite Mort lies in its fluid sequence of group moments and splendid pas de deux, shifting from lyrical to passionate to aggressive. It is set to the slow movements of two of Mozart’s most famous concertos for piano and orchestra, Nos. 23 and 21, performed here with Takahiro Yoshikawa on piano.
In Kylián’s words, the piece features “six men, six women, and six foils, which serve as true dancing partners and sometimes appear more undisciplined and obstinate than a flesh-and-blood partner.” For this revival, the pairs will include Martina Valentini with Domenico Di Cristo, Agnese Di Clemente with Eugenio Lepera, Giulia Frosi with Nicola Del Freo, Nicoletta Manni with Timofej Andrijashenko, Alice Mariani with Christian Fagetti (alternating with Martina Arduino and Gabriele Corrado), and Alessandra Vassallo with Marco Agostino.
Roberto Bolle. Photograph: Brescia e Amisano © Teatro alla Scala
The evening closes with another cult classic: Boléro by Maurice Béjart, set to Ravel’s iconic score. This ritual of powerful sensuality and enthralling intensity entrusts the central role of the Melody—performed indifferently by a male or female dancer—while the Rhythm is embodied by a group of dancers.
Returning once again to La Scala, Roberto Bolle stars on the legendary round table, joined by the other La Scala artists who have shared the role of the Melody since 2018. The Orchestra dell’Accademia Teatro alla Scala, conducted by Maestro Simon Hewett, will perform in the pit.
by Chidozie Obasi