THE PYGMALION EFFECT
Inspired by the Greek myth

WEST COAST PREMIERE

Renowned for his flamboyantly narrative ballets, the fiery Russian choreographer Boris Eifman creates works of “extreme theatricality and spectacular effect. The company’s gorgeous, hyper-flexible dancers are up to the challenge,” (The New Yorker). Often inspired by historical figures or great works of literature, Eifman explores the extremes of human emotion, a distinction that is at the heart of the choreographer’s creativity.

Keeping with his signature tradition, Eifman now takes inspiration from the Greek mythological tale of Pygmalion, a sculptor who became infatuated with his own life-like carving of a beautiful girl. For this West Coast Premiere ballet, the role of the passionate sculptor is performed by a ballroom dancer, who “sculpts” a young girl into a brilliant dancer. For the first time, Eifman uses the music of “The Waltz King” Johann Strauss Jr. to underscore the spiritual and physical transformation of his heroine. This is a dance event of the season not to be missed!

Music: Johann Strauss, Jr.
Choreography: Boris Eifman
Costume Designer: Olga Shaishmelashvili
Set Designer: Zinovy Margolin
Lighting Designer: Alexander Sivaev and Boris Eifman

The Pygmalion Effect is presented with special underwriting from Tim and Mary Harward