Some 120 years ago, under the patronage of the czar of Russia, two of the most profound influences on classical ballet, the choreographer Marius Petipa and the composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, came together to create the epic ballet The Sleeping Beauty. Little could they have imagined that over a century later their creation would be the cornerstone in the repertoire of ballet companies throughout the world.
For the artists, the dancers, it represents the "high bar" from which to be measured. It also represents the unique tradition of ballet and its continuity.
This is not an art form that is passed on to the next generation in book or manuscript form. It has to be one on one, artist to artist.
Over the centuries the ever repeating cycle: the talented student under the tutelage of the former accomplished artist turned teacher, passing on his or her vast experience to the talented student, who becomes the next accomplished artist.
It was in the legendary Imperial Mariinsky Theatre, home of the world renowned Kirov Ballet, that the first performance of The Sleeping Beauty took place in 1890. This theatre also saw the premiere of Swan Lake, La Bayadere, le Corsair and The Nutcracker, all still being performed today.
When Sechelt dancer David Holmes was studying and dancing with the Kirov Ballet in his mid 20s, and was preparing for the role of The Sleeping Beauty's Prince Desire, he was informed that the final oversight of his coaching would be done by Madam Lukolm, a ballerina of the original cast who worked directly under Petipa and Tchaikovsky.
How was this possible? He was later to learn that part of the theatre's legacy was a special retirement home for dancers of distinction from past generations - an incredible repository of knowledge and experience linking the next generation to their origins. Madam Lukolm was 90 years young and sprightly when she coached Holmes; the session began with "No! No! No! Mr. Petipa wanted it to be like this," and this was exactly how it was going to be.
Students of the two forthcoming summer ballet sessions in Sechelt will have the opportunity to explore the divertissement of this classical masterpiece which will give new meaning to all of those steps and port de bras they have been working on so hard. It promises to be a productive and entertaining summer for all.
This never-ending cycle will be the theme of this year's ballet summer sessions conducted by Holmes and his ballerina wife Kathleen. The first session is July 11 to July 15, the second from Aug. 15 to 19.
For more information contact, David or Kathleen at 604-740-9951, or email [email protected].
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