Catalyst (1990 - )

McMurdo, Don: Lisa Pavane and Greg Horsman in Stephen Baynes' 'Catalyst', the Australian Ballet, 1992

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Catalyst premiered at the Sydney Opera House on 4 May 1990. The work, which was designed by Andrew Carter and lit by Kenneth Rayner, was commissioned by the Australian Ballet from choreographer Stephen Baynes. The cast was led on opening night by Australian Ballet principals Lisa Pavane and Greg Horsman.

Baynes wrote in program notes for the opening season: 'This work was inspired by Francis Poulenc's Concerto for Two Pianos. ... I was particularly drawn to the sense of conflict throughout the piece. I feel there are really two moods alternating throughout the work ... The ballet depicts the way these opposing forces act as a catalyst to influence and dominate a group, causing a change within it and, eventually, in individual members. One force is violent and agressive which causes a division within the group and alienates individuals from each other. This force is challenged by an opposing one which offers the opportunity for individuals to come together in an atmosphere of serenity and calm which they all crave'.

Catalyst has been toured nationally and internationally and restaged on a number of occasions by the Australian Ballet. It was taken into the repertoire of the Royal Danish Ballet by Maina Gielgud in 1998.

See also: Australian Ballet, The ; Baynes, Stephen ; Gielgud, Maina ; Pavane, Lisa

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Find more about Catalyst in:

• Internet - Google
• Articles - New York Public Library Dance Collection
• Pictures - Picture Australia