Under the title Chronicles, Hessisches Staatsballett (the merged dance division of the Darmstadt and Wiesbaden State Theaters) is celebrating its 10th anniversary with six very different pieces, four of which are world premieres. The choreographies are by Liliana Barros, Dunja Jocić, David Raymond & Tiffany Tregarthen, Anouk van Dijk, Leïla Ka, and Fran Diaz. The company, curated by ballet director Bruno Heynderickx, showcases the full range of its capabilities. From Barros' acrobatic Fauno to Leïla Ka's Bouffées. Dedicated to mourning, the latter begins statically, but then develops powerfully: exciting because it is without music, so only the breathing, gasping, and sighing of the five dancers sets the pace. The finale is The Mass Ornament by the Spaniard Fran Diaz: In flowing green robes, the entire stage is filled with high energy to baroque music, creating a powerful, thrilling, and almost military-like atmosphere. Thanks to the minimalist stage design, the entire attention is directed to the dancers. And their diverse costumes — from glittery bodysuits to suits to floral dresses. At the end: enthusiastic applause and cheers. In short: a true gala!
Again in Darmstadt, Großes Haus, 5, 12, 17, 19, 27 April, and 10, 16 May; Wiesbaden, Staatstheater, 9, 26 June; www.hessisches-staatsballett.de
