Ballet
The Rite of Spring
The Rite of Spring is the ballet that famously caused a near riot on opening night. Its pounding, jagged music and raw, earthy movement were like nothing audiences had seen in 1913. It is still one of the boldest, most influential works in the whole art form.
Fast facts
- Composer
- Igor Stravinsky
- Choreographer
- Vaslav Nijinsky (original 1913); later versions by many choreographers
- Premiere
- 1913, Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, Paris
- Structure
- Two parts
- Running time
- About 35 minutes
The story
There is no fairy tale plot here. The ballet depicts scenes of pagan ritual in ancient Russia, building toward the sacrifice of a chosen young woman who dances herself to death to welcome the spring. It is meant to feel primal and intense rather than pretty. Different choreographers have staged it in very different ways over the years.
What The Rite of Spring is famous for
- the riot at its 1913 premiere
- Stravinsky's revolutionary score
- its raw, primal choreography
- changing the course of modern music and dance
Companies that perform The Rite of Spring
The Rite of Spring is in the repertoire of companies including The Joffrey Ballet.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did The Rite of Spring cause a riot?
Its harsh, driving music and stark, un-pretty movement shocked the 1913 Paris audience so much that the premiere reportedly erupted into shouting and scuffles.
Does The Rite of Spring tell a story?
Not a traditional one. It portrays scenes of pagan spring ritual ending in a sacrifice, and it is more about mood and ritual than a plot.
Who composed The Rite of Spring?
Igor Stravinsky composed the score, which is considered one of the most influential pieces of twentieth century music.
Who composed The Rite of Spring?
The Rite of Spring was composed by Igor Stravinsky.
How long is The Rite of Spring?
The Rite of Spring runs about 35 minutes.