San Francisco Ballet honours Hans van Manen with dedicated programme
San Francisco Ballet is currently presenting a special tribute to Hans van Manen, resident choreographer of Dutch National Ballet, with the programme Van Manen: Dutch Grandmaster. The works were rehearsed under the supervision of associate artistic director Rachel Beaujean, and the production has been widely praised by the press.
The programme features four of Van Manen’s iconic ballets: Grosse Fuge, Variations for Two Couples, Solo, and 5 Tangos. Rachel Beaujean, associate artistic director of Dutch National Ballet, was closely involved in the rehearsal process.
“Fireworks of pure dancing power”
The American press has expressed great admiration for the programme. A selection of reviews:
“San Francisco Ballet’s tribute to Hans van Manen will change how you see dance.” – San Francisco Chronicle
“Van Manen’s musicality, attunement to interpersonal relationships and gift for making “plotless” ballets emotionally compelling shine throughout.” – Broadwayworld.com
On Grosse Fuge: “Each choreographic shape or gambit carries a vow to remain faithful to the composer’s orchestral structuring. The result is elevating – for the dancers, the music, the audience, and the art form.” – CultureVulture.net
International recognition
International interest in Van Manen’s work remains strong. Later this year, the Czech National Ballet will perform Sarcasmen and Frank Bridge Variations, with Beaujean bringing her expertise once more to the rehearsal process. In Germany, Stuttgart Ballet will soon present the programme Five for Hans, while Ballett am Rhein is currently performing Visions Fugitives as part of their Drei Meister – Drei Werke programme.
Van Manen’s work will also return to our own stage soon: Dutch National Ballet will perform Solo in the programme Other Dances.