Search - Spoerli/Bach: Cello Suites, In Den Winden Im Nichts on DVD

Outstanding Choreography In This Gorgeous Modern Ballet.

J. M WILINSKY | teaneck, NJ United States | 07/20/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This abstract ballet is set to J. S. Bach's Suites No.2,3,&6 for unaccompanied cello(the cellist is Claudius Herrmann). The choreography, by Heinz Spoerli, is extremely challenging and interesting. It includes many adagios and grand and petite allegros, both solo and group dances, partnered and unpartnered, in accord with the music tempi. The dancing is mostly classical in style, the women dance on pointe, the men in the usual ballet slippers. Spoerli's style is very lyrical and smooth, demonstrating the limits of each of the dancers abilities. The costumes are mostly simple, but attractive leotards. There is essentially only a black background most of the time, with a simple hoop in the back of the space. The hoop gives of colored vapors at times. The floor is lit with very bright and colorful lights with some simple textures. The image(widescreen) and sound(Dolby digital 5.1) are perfect. As a special feature, there is a 22 minute interview with Heinz Spoerli, explaining his thoughts on the work, including clips from the ballet to illustrate his points. There is also included a 32 page booklet in French, English, and German, with lots of colorful photos. This is highly recommended for lovers of modern ballet and dance."