The McNicol Ballet Collective will make its debut with Awakenings, a programme of four pieces choreographed by Andrew McNicol, at The Bloomsbury Theatre, London on 13 and 14 November and at Hull New Theatre on 21 November.
This programme of contemporary ballet will feature, in the 50th anniversary since Stravinsky’s death, Firebird Reimagined, an interpretation of the iconic work that will feature set and costume designs by Elin Steele.
Of Silence is "an exploration of hope, connection and belonging" inspired by the music of Latvian composer Peteris Vasks. Set to a specially commissioned score by Nicholas Thayer and Setareh Nafisi, In Ecstasy is a response to the progressive, eccentric composer Alexander Scriabin. Completing the programme, set to a score by American composer Mason Bates, is Bates Beats.
A new dance film of Firebird Reimagined will première in September online featuring former Birmingham Royal Ballet dancer Kristen McGarrity and Principal of Scottish Ballet Evan Loudon.
McNicol said, “my mission is to create a memorable body of work that has the power to move and the capacity to connect. Music continues to be one of my most important sources of inspiration alongside the lived experience and individual qualities each artist contributes to the creative process. Awakenings was born out of a desire to create an evening of modern ballet works that explore contemporary themes about our collective humanity: our struggles, our endeavours and crucially our triumphs.”
The McNicol Ballet Collective will also launch Unbound, a city-wide dance initiative taking place across Andrew’s hometown of Hull throughout the autumn for which dance artist and choreographer Bim Malcomson will create a new work with local dance schools performed as a curtain raiser for the performance at Hull New Theatre.
Unbound will also include mentoring opportunities for teachers and senior students interested in learning more and developing their skills in dance and performance. A series of masterclasses covering dance, dance on camera and lighting and technical skills will be hosted by Hull New Theatre and Hull City Hall and open to all.