The myth of Orpheus, a timeless story of love, loss, and the eternal struggle between life and death, has captivated artists for centuries. From ancient poetry to modern theater, Orpheus’ tragic journey has inspired countless interpretations…
Alan Lake’s Orpheus | S’abrever des Volcans, presented at Place des Arts’ Cinquième Salle from April 1 to 5, 2025, continues this tradition with a contemporary twist that blends choreography, visual artistry, and evocative imagery to bring the myth to life in a truly unique way.
Choreographed by Alan Lake in collaboration with his dancers, this performance delves into the heart of Orpheus’ journey, exploring themes of doubt, loss, and the unyielding passage of time. Lake’s artistic vision intertwines elements of tradition and modernity, creating a world that straddles the line between dream and reality. In this reimagining, the audience is invited to immerse themselves in a supernatural atmosphere where movement and imagery converge to embody the myth’s timeless lessons.
The choreography of Orpheus | S’abrever des Volcans is a signature display of Alan Lake’s distinctive style. His company, Alan Lake Factori[e], is known for its energetic physicality and bold expression through dance, and this production is no exception.
Seven performers bring the story of Orpheus to vivid life, with their athleticism and precision adding an emotional intensity that resonates throughout the piece.
One of the standout elements of the performance is the creative use of props and visual effects. The dancers manipulate large curtains, hoisting and pulling them in dynamic movements that obscure and reveal their bodies in a striking dance of shadow and light. These curtains are not just set pieces; they become an integral part of the narrative, symbolizing the unseen forces of fate and emotion that drive the characters.
Equally captivating is the subtle use of hidden smoke machines concealed within the dancers’ costumes. This clever effect adds an ethereal quality to the performance, enhancing the sense of mystery and otherworldliness. As the dancers twist and contort, trails of smoke follow their movements, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle that draws the audience deeper into the dreamlike world that Lake has crafted.
While the performance is undoubtedly immersive and thought-provoking, it also leaves a lingering sense of awe. The careful integration of dance, visual effects, and atmospheric elements creates an experience that is as much about sensation as it is about narrative. It’s a bold interpretation of an ancient story that brings it into the present, inviting viewers to reflect on their own relationship with loss, desire, and the passage of time.
Following the performances, audiences will have the opportunity to engage with the artists during post-show talks on April 2 and April 4, offering a deeper dive into the creative process behind this captivating work.
Orpheus | S’abrever des Volcans is a visually stunning, emotionally charged performance that re-imagines a classic myth through the lens of contemporary dance and visual art.
For those looking for a thought-provoking experience that blurs the boundaries between movement, space, and emotion, Alan Lake’s latest work is not to be missed.
Tickets are available now for the run at Cinquième Salle, Place des Arts.
Place des Arts, Montreal – April 1-5, 2025