The Cellist by Cathy Marston and Dances at a Gathering by Jerome Robbins, music by Chopin and Philip Feeney
The Royal Ballet
Cast
Jerome Robbins — Choreographer
Joe Eula — Costume designer
Jennifer Tipton — Lighting designer
Ben Huys — Stage director
Robert Clark — Pianist
Marianela Núñez — Pink
Program notes
Discover the dancers of the Royal Ballet in two separate works at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Jerome Robbins’ Dances at Gathering is a suite for five couples, articulated atop an all-Chopin score, performed brilliantly by pianist Robert Clarkes. The legendary American choreographer himself explains, “I created a rather classical ballet based on out-of-fashion yet Romantic music, but there’s method in the madness. In a certain aspect it’s a revolt against a current craze. I ask myself about connection, about love, about celebrating positive things.”
Cathy Marston’s The Cellist was created specifically for the Royal Ballet. The piece is inspired by the public and private life of the legendary cellist Jacqueline du Pré. It is an elegant and poignant homage to one of the most beloved—and tragic—figures of twentieth-century classical music. Marton’s candid, open choreography pairs masterfully with a well-chosen set of masterworks for the cello by Mendelssohn, Schubert, and Elgar.
