Vaslav Nijinsky, the dance maverick of the legendary Ballet Russes, performed 'Danse Siamoise' in the Paris Opera. Exactly 100 years later, Pichet Klunchun, the celebrated Thai dancer, incarnates this forgotten solo dance.

Through careful research, Pichet animates the poses and movement from archival documents on Nijinsky. His version features the original score by composer Christian Sinding, first conducted by Stravinsky.

It also recalls the images of the first Thai classical dance troupe that toured Europe in 1900 and deeply impressed many artists, including Diaghlev who founded the Ballet Russes.

The historical encounter with Thai classical dance was thus part of the art movement called ‘Orientalism’ which rippled across film, visual arts and other artistic forms.

Pichet summons Nijinsky back on stage by means of paintings, photographs and traditional huge puppets called 'nang yai'. He invites us to perceive the acts of ‘reconstruction’, ‘reinterpretation’ and ‘reinvention’ of cultures.

A sensitive dance dialogue unfolds between both artists - one dead and the other alive. Between shadow and light, life and vitality is re-imagined.

Produced by Tang Fu Kuen, 'Nijinsky Siam' is a co-production by Singapore Arts Festival and Theater der Welt 2010, and supported by Zürcher Theater Spektakel and Noorderzon Performing Arts Festival Groningen.

Nijinsky Siam Credit:

Nijinsky Siam is a co-producion between the Singapore Arts Festival and Theater der Welt 2010, and is supported by Zürcher Theater Spektakel and Noorderzon/Grand Theatre Groningen.

Choreographer/Artistic Director/Set Designer: Pichet Klunchun

Lighting Designer: Jirach, Eaimsa-Ard

Dancers: Porramet Maneerat, Padung Jumpan, Kornkarn Rungsawng, Pichet Klunchun

Producer: Tang Fu Kuen

Manager: Sojirat Singholka

Song: Alte Weise, Op. 89_2 composed by Christian Sinding

Historical Researchers of Production: Sylvie Dancre and Philippe de Lustrac