The thrill of the chase has never been more intense than in Robert Battle’s dance for six men.
The Hunt is a primal ritual with a distinctly urban feel fueled by a thundering percussion soundtrack by Les Tambours du Bronx. Perhaps Battle’s most popular work, it explores the relationship between modern sports and the rites of the gladiators.
Battle found inspiration for the work in his background in martial arts, replicating the intensity and combative stances. Costumed in long black skirts with under layers of red, six men throw themselves into the movement, reveling in the thrill of the hunt. It’s a work that challenges the physical limits and the emotional stamina of even the famously indomitable Ailey men. Said rehearsal director and guest artist Matthew Rushing, "at times Robert gave us images of being in a rave club, letting loose and going wild and not caring about technique or form—just throwing out energy. A lot of times it feels like you’re in a fight, or you're fighting to get through."
Echoing the praise voiced by critics and audiences around the world, The Seattle Times raved that "to see it unfold is to drift between a visceral attraction to the pounding, progressing movements and the awareness of a choreographic vision so inventive it becomes like a seventh onstage presence…"
Generous support for this production was provided by The Pamela D. Zilly & John H. Schaefer New Works Endowment Fund, Linda Stocknoff, and Ricki N. Lander & Robert K. Kraft.
MUSIC CREDITS
"Jungle Jazz" by L. Blomme, performed by Les Tambours du Bronx.
"Les Boulets Se Rebiffent" by A. Dipace, J.Y. Lefloch, Y. Nisgand, B. Pingon, and J.M. Tramoy, performed by Les Tambours du Bronx.
"Black Bull" by L. Le Mapihan, performed by Les Tambours du Bronx. Music from the recording Silence (1999). Used with permission by Right Bank Music, Inc.
The Company in The Hunt, photo by Rosalie O'Connor
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The Company in The Hunt, photo by Rosalie O'Connor
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The Company in The Hunt, photo by Rosalie O'Connor
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Members of the Company in The Hunt, photo by Christopher Duggan
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Members of the Company in The Hunt, photo by Gert Krautbauer
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Members of the Company in The Hunt, photo by Gert Krautbauer