There's a reason why "Appalachian Spring" by Aaron Copland is considered an American ballet classic. It's a beautiful work that speaks to the heart of the American spirit – simplicity, strength, and resilience. From the moment the first chords of the music fill the theatre, I am transported to a place of quiet wonder, to a rural setting where nature reigns and the spirit of the early American settlers lingers.
The ballet tells the story of a newlywed couple who build a life together in the early American West. It is simple, almost folktale-like, but there's a deep, undeniable beauty in its straightforwardness. The couple faces hardship and struggles, but their faith in themselves and each other, in the promise of a new life, shines through.
It is the music, though, that truly carries the story. Copland's score is masterful. It is full of intricate details, beautiful melodies, and moments of poignant simplicity that capture the spirit of the American frontier perfectly. His use of traditional American folk melodies – the banjo and fiddles, the mournful whistles of the wind, the clap of a whip, the pounding of hooves, the echo of a church bell, the hum of a lullaby - are masterful. These instruments and sounds transport you to a place where the echoes of the past resonate, bringing forth the feelings of optimism, determination and raw resilience that formed the foundation of this nation. These beautiful, evocative musical landscapes set the stage for a captivating journey through dance and characterisation, through the struggles, joy and resilience of the early pioneers.
Here’s a closer look at what makes Appalachian Spring so magical:- The Choreography: The ballet’s choreography, originally created by Martha Graham in 1944, is known for its strength, its natural, earthy grace, and its ability to depict human emotion in raw and visceral ways. The choreography beautifully reflects the resilience and the hardships that shaped the lives of early settlers in this period. In this original, landmark choreography, Graham masterfully weaves together simple yet expressive gestures with powerful movements, creating a captivating tapestry that brings to life the pioneer spirit.
- The Dances: Each dance section within the ballet paints a poignant vignette of pioneer life. Some are celebratory, such as the vibrant and lively "Wedding Dance". Some are sorrowful, like the "Pas de Deux", a heart-wrenching portrayal of loneliness and resilience that leaves you emotionally moved. One scene which I find particularly captivating is the “The Revival,” a joyful expression of community and shared faith – it resonates with deep emotion and powerful connection. There’s a reason these are American ballet staples.
- The Dancers: Each dancer plays a significant role in the unfolding story, expressing raw emotions and poignant stories through movement. You see strength and struggle in their bodies. The dancer portraying the “Bride” evokes tenderness and yearning for a new life. In the original production, Graham, a pioneering and innovative choreographer and dancer, graced the stage with her electrifying talent. Seeing Graham embody the Bride on stage was a pivotal moment for ballet and American artistry. The dancers embody their roles with remarkable authenticity, their passion evident in every gesture, every move.
- The Story: It's a simple story but it is a beautiful story – a reflection of American resilience and spirit, set against the backdrop of the early American frontier. It speaks to a profound, deeply embedded connection to place, family and a desire for a life grounded in simplicity, hard work and honest values.
- The Costumes: These are simple yet elegant. The costumes designed by Reginald (Rex) Benton embody the spirit of the piece, mirroring the pioneer era in all their authentic simplicity. It’s almost as though the costumes, simple yet poignant, are the backdrop for an unfolding tale, with each element contributing to the powerful narrative and artistic storytelling that sets this ballet apart from other productions.
"Appalachian Spring" is not a show to watch; it’s an experience. A performance that touches you deeply, leaves you inspired, and fills you with an enduring sense of awe. The interplay between the dancer's movement, the composer’s masterful score, the captivating storytelling and the simplicity of the design leaves a profound and lasting impact.
If you've never had the pleasure of seeing this ballet, I encourage you to experience it yourself. It’s a performance that stays with you long after the curtains close. There's something deeply moving and resonant about "Appalachian Spring" - perhaps it's the simplicity of the story, the universality of its themes, the emotional depth, the masterful artistry of its score and choreography or the simple magic of seeing those characters take flight, against a beautiful canvas of pure American sound.