Photo: Rahi Rezvani
Choreographer: Sol León & Paul Lightfoot
In the context of 'Shine a Light', a piece by Sol León and Paul Lightfoot that premiered in May 2012, Lightfoot quotes philosopher Francis Bacon: “In order for the light to shine so brightly, the darkness has to be present.”
Without ever becoming too theatrical or sensational, the ballet explores the experience of childhood nightmares, in which it aims to depict the disturbed dream world children often create in their sleep. ‘Shine a Light’ is a combination of factors that characterize León and Lightfoot’s work so well: long lines, elegance and grace. However, they are never afraid to show the raw and the borderline ugly, in a continuous search to balance dance with theatrical elements. The strong costumes in this ballet, as well as the incredible set and light design, can be considered the second, third and fourth character in the piece.