#sydney REVIEW - I had a beautiful evening with the lovely @chamellephoto last Friday at the @sydneyoperahouse for the opening of Nijinsky - a performance that was both complex and profound. Dedicated to Vaslav Nijinsky, regarded as one of the greatest male dancers of the early 20th century, the show re-enacts his life’s highs and lows, culminating in his last public performance on January 19th, 1919. This powerful production was meticulously choreographed by acclaimed narrative ballet choreographer John Neumeier. @callumlinnane as Nijinsky on the night, was absolutely outstanding - his raw emotions radiated through the theatre. @maxyzen as Serge Diaghilev, Nijinsky’s former mentor and lover showed the powerful grip he had on Nijinsky. @akokondo who we previously saw in Oscar, was once again incredible and showed both power and grace in the second part of the show which was quite poignant and truly captured the brilliance of Nijinsky’s mind and his struggles.
The set design was simplistic and, at times, clinical - undoubtedly deliberate in execution to reflect Nijinsky’s time in treatment centres due to the effects of schizophrenia.
A special mention must go to the @operaaustralia orchestra who were, as always, phenomenal. The music transported me to memories of classical music playing on my grandmother’s record player in the French countryside.
Thank you @chamellephoto and @ausballet for the opportunity to witness such an unforgettable performance.
Note: Nijinsky contains adult themes, including sexual content and depictions of self-harm, and is recommended for mature audiences. This production also includes the use of light haze and a single strobe flash. I would recommend this performance for ages 15+ due to themes, complexity and duration of 2.5 hours. On until 22nd April 2025.
#hosted #invited #oscar #oscarballet #ausballet #sydneyoperahouse The Australian Ballet - Photos by @busycitykids and supplied.
Vaslav Nijinsky was at the height of his career during the early 20th century. His unparalleled performances brought him adoring fans while his evocative and sensual choreography caused riots in theatres in Paris.
In a tragic turn of events, Nijinsky succumbed to the effects of schizophrenia, spending the remainder of his life in and out of treatment centres. He gave his last public performance in 1919 in a Swiss hotel in a dance that reflected the gamut of emotions.
Acclaimed narrative ballet choreographer John Neumeier examines Nijinsky’s final performance, charting the rise and fall of a creative genius in vivid detail. He recalls his troubled family, his ill-fated romances and the transcendent performances that brought him fame.
In a production that defies categorisation, Nijinsky offers an opportunity for The Australian Ballet’s male artists to take on the dancer’s distinctive style. Set within the glamour of early 20th century Paris, rich sets and costumes create a world-within-a-world, brimming with visionary opulence.
A spectacular piece of theatre, Nijinsky is a tribute to the visionary dancer and choreographer who changed the ballet world forever.
Event Details:
Dates: 4 – 22 April 2025
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes / 1 Interval
Ages: Not specified
Location: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Warnings: Contains mature themes including sexual content and depictions of self-harm that some audiences may find confronting.
Notes: Contains Light Haze and one strobe flash (camera effect)