„Nijinsky“ is the title of this „choreographic approach“ to a dance phenomenon that has been part of Neumeier‘s life ever since the beginning of his career. During his approximately ten years as a dancer, Vaslav Nijinsky set a new standard both technically and expressively, while in his choreographic work he pointed the way towards modern dance. His personal fate and mental illness that forced him to spend the last 30 years of his life in various asylums and in the keeping of his wife gave his short artistic career an even more aweinspiring and sensational quality. All three aspects – the dancer, the choreographer and the person Nijinsky – form the starting point for John Neumeier‘s latest creation. Neumeier, who as early as 1979 presented a short ballet „Vaslav“, is regarded as one of the leading Nijinsky experts worldwide. Nevertheless, it was not without reluctance that he took up the task of honouring through dance a dance legend: „In creating a work about a historical person, what aspect should we concentrate on? Who was he truly: The man? The artist? Which witness, what information can we trust, which theories should one follow? What point of view can we take towards the complex puzzle Nijinsky? An instinctive choice must be made…“ and sensational quality.
The Glass Menagerie – A ballet by John Neumeier
Tennessee Williams established his reputation as a prominent American writer of the 20th century through his play The Glass Menagerie, a deeply personal family drama known as a “Memory Play.” Initially staged in Chicago in 1944, the work faced rejection in Hollywood before finding success on Broadway. In 2019, John Neumeier reinterpreted The Glass Menagerie for the Hamburg Ballet, incorporating elements from Williams’ life. The ballet featured music by American composers Charles Ives, Philip Glass, and Ned Rorem, along with snippets from Williams’ own plays. This adaptation marked 75 years since the play’s debut, showcasing the enduring influence of Williams’ work in different artistic forms. The themes of memory, family dynamics, and personal struggles in The Glass Menagerie continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, reflecting Williams’ lasting impact on the literary and performing arts scene.
Dona Nobis Pacem – A ballet by John Neumeier
„Dona Nobis Pacem“ – give us peace. This title is important to me, even at the risk of seeming naïve, pathetic or even pretentious to some. In light of the rampant irreconcilability in our world, this thought provided an important stimulus for me to engage with Johann Sebastian Bach‘s multi-layered composition. In my 50th season as artistic director, I see this creation as a great opportunity. It would be inconceivable for me to create a ballet with the Mass in B minor with another company. Something like this is only possible with a familiar ensemble, which the dancers of my company are in a unique way. (John Neumeier)
John Neumeier – A Life for the Dance
On different levels, the film approaches one of the greatest choreographers of our time: John Neumeier. The film is about his work and about Neumeier personally. Friends and companions share their views and Neumeier’s husband also gives private insights. The joint trip with Neumeier to Chicago and Milwaukee is a journey to his very beginnings and shows the roots and the source of his work up to today. We learn about the path and career of John Neumeier and draw a portrait of a great dancer, a wonderful teacher and a person deeply rooted in art and religion. Complementing the floating camera in the recording of Neumeier’s ballet choreographies during rehearsals, we show current artistic work that captures movement and dance, aesthetics and expression, humanity and commitment to others in an authentic and aesthetic way.
Music for Eternity – Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos
The Brandenburg Concertos by Johann Sebastian Bach are, together with Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons”, the most famous concerts in the history of early music. They are true “evergreens” with an exciting genesis, brilliantly orchestrated and extremely varied. The flautist Ana de la Vega is one of the dazzling personalities of a young generation of musicians. On the occasion of the 300th anniversary of the Brandenburg Concertos, she embarks on a journey into the history and musical characteristics of the works. Fascinated by Bach and his music, she searches for traces in Leipzig, Weimar, Köthen and Berlin: How did the concerts come about? What makes them so unique? And what is the truth of the claim that they were a secret application of Bach?