Metaforen

Photo: Ger van Leeuwen
On this photo: Gérard Lemaître, Han Ebbelaar

Choreographer: Hans van Manen

'Metaforen' (Metaphors) is an early Van Manen. All elements of his mastery were already present therein. Controversial at that time was his male duet, interpreted by many as provocative, while Van Manen just wanted to show that the pas de deux can be danced by men as well.

“’Metaforen’ is a musical ballet, inspired by musical contrasts between slow and fast, and the tension that this contrast creates. However, it is not an abstract ballet for this musical tension is transposed to the tension of human relations. Dancers are no instruments, they remain people, even if they aren't expressing a story. When I was watching one of the last rehearsals, this choreography gave me a sense of joy, but also of sadness…Perhaps a farewell to a youth?”

– Hans van Manen