The Australian Ballet - Nijinsky

Vaslav Nijinsky was at the height of his career during the early 20th century. His unparalleled performances brought him adoring fans while his evocative and sensual choreography caused riots in theatres in Paris. In a tragic turn of events, Nijinsky succumbed to the effects of schizophrenia, spending the remainder of his life in and out of treatment centres. He gave his last public performance in 1919 in a Swiss hotel in a dance that reflected the gamut of emotions. Acclaimed narrative ballet choreographer John Neumeier examines Nijinsky’s final performance, charting the rise and fall of a creative genius in vivid detail. He recalls his troubled family, his ill-fated romances and the transcendent performances that brought him fame. In a production that defies categorisation, Nijinsky offers an opportunity for The Australian Ballet’s male artists to take on the dancer’s distinctive style. Set within the glamour of early 20th century Paris, rich sets and costumes create a world-within-a-world, brimming with visionary opulence. A spectacular piece of theatre, Nijinsky is a tribute to the visionary dancer and choreographer who changed the ballet world forever.