Russell Maliphant – Silent Echo

I wanted to utilise elements and qualities of the mastery Natalia and Sergei have in classical technique and broaden that language into something that could be contemporary. Our shared foundations in classical ballet and hunger to try new possibilities was a starting point for this work. I wanted to create something that would be related in form to a classical pas de deux – when a first duet is presented, followed by a solo and then a final duet – although the typical duration would be altered to reflect a more contemporary approach.

I have collaborated with lighting designer Michael Hulls, leaving space for the light to fluidly alter the look and shape of the performance area. I invited Danielle Scutt to collaborate and design the costumes as I was particularly interested in her knowledge of the classical design process and her unique modern take on that.

Most of the music has been composed by Scanner, which felt an appropriate layer and counterpoint to the qualities and dynamics we were working with in the movement material, whilst the music for Sergei’s solo is by James Lavelle, titled Trouble in Paradise which is a modern classic.