“Following the first interval, Shaun James Kelly’s first RNZB commission for the main stage Chrysalis celebrates its world premiere on the opening night of the triple bill season. Since being appointed as a Choreographer in Residencein 2018, he has developed his aestheticperspective through works for Tutus on Tour,children’s ballets, and in-house choreographicprojects. Kelly describes his style as “based in theclassical world, bringing it into today; more extended and extreme - new age classical ballet”.Chrysalis has a clear conceptual arc, exploringlayers in both literal and figurative ways, drawingon relationships, chance encounters,metamorphosis, and becoming the person youwere always meant to be. Set to composer PhilipGlass’ emotively rich Metamorphosis I - V(movements of which are inspired by FranzKafka’s 1915 The Metamorphosis, the novellaabout a man who inexplicably awakes transformed into a monstrous insect), Chrysalisfinds the fine balance between substance and meaning, and space for audience interpretationand personal response. Kelly worked closely with designer Rory William Docherty on costumeswhich metamorphosize superbly as set elements for Chrysalis, resulting in a resplendentlycolourful collection of shape and texture throughout the work. Cohesive costume palettes and mid-century silhouettes are juxtaposed with heavily-coloured late-1970s unitards, sheer slips, and the occasionally incongruous translucentfedora. Kelly’s choreographic signatures includerigorous and challenging partnering, swift dynamic changes, and exploring classical movement vocabulary through a modern lens. Among a strong cast of ten dancers, the pairingand unison/canon contrasts of Kirby Selchow andJemima Scott are engaging and attractive, andChrysalis is an audience favourite.”
Reviewed by Brigitte Knight
