By Laura Frykberg
Russian-born composer Igor Stravinsky was named one of the most influential people of the 20th Century by Time Magazine.
To celebrate his success, the Royal New Zealand Ballet is performing three of his compositions with a modern twist.
When Milagros, the Spanish word for Miracles, was performed in 1913, audiences rioted at its boldness
And while modern audiences are unlikely to riot over Milagros part two called "satisfied with great success" might stir a few traditionalists.
“You put everything in a pot and through the creative process, through the collaboration with Karen Walker and myself and the dancers, we've been able to create this new work, which is ultimately non-narrative,” says choreographer Cameron McMillan.
Karen Walker, responsible for the colourful costumes. The mix of contemporary and traditional ballet in the three-piece set contributed to its popularity along with the success of recent film Black Swan.
“With Black Swan the film you know there is also a fashion within contemporary culture as well and dance is one of the fastest growing arts industries there is,” says Mr McMillan.
Unlike Black Swan, this has a happy ending. The ballet's touring around the country from tonight till June 9th.
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