Tragedy in Guernica ballet performance
Melbourne Ballet Company will return to Horsham Town Hall on Saturday night to perform its production of Guernica.
This tragic love story inspired by Shakespearean tragedy Romeo and Juliet and set in the Spanish Civil War will feature 10 professional dancers who have developed their skills from some of the most renowned dance companies in the world.
The plot is based in an atmosphere of destruction and sense of fear, and when the darkness takes over, two young characters find the light in their hearts: a love story becomes the fulcrum of the narration.
With the illusion of being able to deal with the dark reality that surround them, the two lovers believe that the feeling of bliss found in their love can win out against this evident human cruelty.
Outside the narrative, the central inspiration behind artistic director Simon Hoy’s Guernica is Picasso’s 1937 master-work ‘The Guernica’ which to this day remains one of the most powerful antiwar symbols.
Hoy told The Weekly Advertiser the show’s plot had been tricky to piece together and confirmed it was full of emotion and drama.
“The challenge was to give it a realistic sense historically and work it in a way that we didn’t cast anyone as villains,” he said.
“We have a great cast and the dancers have considerable experience. It’s very polished and a production of which I’m very proud. And of course the Sergei Prokofiev Romeo and Juliet score, which is magnificent.”
Horsham Town Hall manager Shana Miatke said after Melbourne Ballet Company’s outstanding sell-out performance of Arche in the venue last year, it was a delight to welcome the performers back to present Guernica.
“Whether a ballet newcomer or a seasoned ballet-goer, this two-act performance will inspire and transport you to a special place that is totally graceful and exquisite,” she said.
There will also be a Junior Classical and Melbourne Ballet Company Repertoire Workshop at 5pm for children aged between eight and 12 who have previous ballet experience. The workshop will cost $40 a student and is limited to 30 spaces.
People seeking more information about the workshop can call the Horsham Town Hall box office on 5382 9555. Tickets to Guernica are available online at www.horshamtownhall.com. au or at the box office at 71 Pynsent Street and cost $40 or $35 concession.