The Royal Ballet is currently presenting So Are We, a programme that marks the first time a British company has performed works by the acclaimed choreographic duo Sol León and Paul Lightfoot. The production, running at the Royal Opera House in London from 11 to 20 June, features two pieces: Salle de Danse and Shoot the Moon.
A Historic Programme
So Are We brings together two distinct works that showcase the unique artistry of León and Lightfoot, who have been collaborating since 1989. The programme is a significant milestone for the Royal Ballet, introducing audiences to the duo's innovative choreography.
Salle de Danse
Originally choreographed as a film during the Covid-19 pandemic, Salle de Danse is inspired by a dancer's daily class and set to music by Ilya Demutsky. The piece features set, costumes, and lighting designed by León and Lightfoot themselves. Dancers include Melissa Hamilton, Martín Díaz, Hannah Grennell, Mica Bradbury, Annette Buvoli, Leo Dixon, Viola Pantuso, Marcelino Sambé, Marianna Tsembenhoi, Matthew Ball, and Natalia Osipova.
Shoot the Moon
First performed by the Nederlands Dans Theater in 2006, Shoot the Moon is set to music by Philip Glass and features lighting by Tom Bevoort. The piece stars Anna Rose O'Sullivan, Vadim Muntagirov, Lauren Cuthbertson, and Lukas B Brændsrød, with set and costumes also by León and Lightfoot.
Rehearsal Highlights
Photographer Tristram Kenton captured behind-the-scenes moments during rehearsals, including images of O'Sullivan and Muntagirov in Shoot the Moon, and Hamilton and Díaz rehearsing Salle de Danse. The dynamic duo León and Lightfoot were also seen working closely with the dancers.
The Royal Ballet's principal dancers, including Lauren Cuthbertson and Natalia Osipova, bring their exceptional talent to these compelling works. So Are We offers a rare opportunity to experience the creative vision of León and Lightfoot, whose partnership has produced some of the most memorable contemporary dance pieces over the past three decades.
