Is the world a disc? What if it tilts? Is life just a balancing act? What happens to our society when we lose our equilibrium? Extreme situations affect the whole world, are a challenge to humanity and lead to the most diverse reactions. Kinsun Chan and Martin Zimmermann explore such situations in abstract form, examining how individuals deal with these while depicting how change, both external and internal, leads to constant struggle. The dancers perform on an unstable stage floor that can tilt with every movement. This is the precarious platform on which the performers are exposed, risking life and limb in the process. Tirelessly, they try to make connections with others, and in so doing face the challenge of losing their balance and even the ground beneath their feet. The situations shift from controlled, abstract moments to uncontrolled, surreal chaos and, finally, to redemptive liberation.

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Wonderful World

Staatsschauspiel Dresden

Experience the profound intensity and dramatic beauty of ballet with the Alberta Ballet's presentation of "Der Wolf & The Rite of Spring." This compelling double bill transports audiences into a dark and curious landscape filled with folklore, forest, and frenzy, all set against the backdrop of hard-hitting, visceral scores. 

The performances are scheduled to take place in Calgary from May 2nd to May 4th, and in Edmonton on May 10th and 11th. Each evening promises to be an unforgettable journey through powerful storytelling and breathtaking dance.

"Der Wolf" is a distorted adult reimagining of the fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood, premiered by Austria's Oper Graz in 2021. This piece explores themes of temptation, threat, and the struggle between dominance and devotion, offering a darker twist on the age-old tale. Choreographed by Morgann Runacre-Temple with music by Frank Moon, and set and costume design by Kinsun Chan, "Der Wolf" gives the folklore heroine three chances to shape her story, delving into the complexities of choice and consequence.

"The Rite of Spring," with its premiere in 1913, shocked Paris audiences and has since remained one of the most influential pieces in the realms of music and dance. Choreographer Nicolo Fonte's 2014 version maintains the original's power and drama, pairing Igor Stravinsky's iconic score with a libretto that explores community, ritual sacrifice, and themes of birth and rebirth in subtle, abstract ways. The artistic team for this piece includes costume design by David Heuvel and set and lighting design by Michael Mazzola.

This ambitious program not only marks the close of Alberta Ballet's 2023/24 season but also celebrates the unique style and powerful storytelling of its choreographers. Their work is pivotal to the evolution of the company's artistic identity, offering audiences a chance to witness ballet that is both daring and deeply moving.

Content Warning: Please note that the performances include adult themes with theatrical depictions of abuse, violence, and death. The total run time is 1 hour and 59 minutes, with "Der Wolf" lasting 61 minutes, followed by a 25-minute intermission, and "The Rite of Spring" concluding the evening at 33 minutes.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the transformative power of ballet. Tickets are available now for both Calgary and Edmonton performances. Join us for a night of exceptional dance that promises to leave you captivated from start to finish.

Der Wolf & The Rite of Spring

Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium

University of Alberta

The centuries-old Japanese kintsugi method of repairing ceramics can be translated as “golden joinery”. Shards of broken ceramic or porcelain vessels are bonded using urushi lacquer with the cracks deliberately highlighted with a dusting of powdered gold. The aim is not to conceal the damage, but to celebrate the hidden history of a cherished object. Behind this craft, which has been widespread since the 16th century, lies the idea, closely associated with Zen Buddhism, that beauty is not to be sought in perfection, but rather in imperfection and transience. These two components symbolise the flow of life, the becoming and passing of all being.

Kinsun Chan

Events

Upcoming events

May 8 - Jul 5, 2026

Parts and Pieces · Semperoper Dresden

Past events

Oct 9, 2025 - Jan 12, 2026

Wonderful World · Semperoper Dresden

2 - 11 May, 2023

Der Wolf & The Rite of Spring · Alberta Ballet

About

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