Past Present Future
The History of Revolutionary Ideas: The Rite of Spring w/Dominic Dromgoole
Apr 17, 2025
Dominic Dromgoole, author of 'Astonish Me! First Nights that Changed the World', joins the conversation to dissect Stravinsky’s 'The Rite of Spring'. He delves into the chaotic premiere in 1913, exploring the audience’s outrage and Nijinsky's artistic boldness. The chat also touches on the broader cultural tensions of the time, antisemitism, and the significance of this revolutionary work in modern art. Dromgoole shares insights on how the premiere foreshadowed the societal upheaval to come in 1914 and the unexpected ties to American presidential history.
46:53
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Quick takeaways
- The premiere of Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring in 1913 served as a transformative moment that challenged traditional ballet and provoked societal tensions.
- Diaghilev's role as an impresario emphasized the performance as a social event, creating an atmosphere of conflict that enhanced the theatrical experience.
Deep dives
The Revolutionary Nature of The Rite of Spring
The premiere of The Rite of Spring in 1913 marked a crucial moment in the evolution of ballet and modern art. Composed by Stravinsky and choreographed by Nijinsky, the piece was intentionally designed to shock audiences, straying far from traditional ballet conventions. This production was not just a performance but an event that aimed to create an explosive reaction, which it undoubtedly did, leading to widespread chaos in the theatre. The violent audience response highlighted the underlying tensions within society and the clash of artistic vision against entrenched conservative values.
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