The German company Staatsballett Hannover is performing in Madrid with one of the most notable creations by its director, a choreographer originally from the capital. This artist, trained at the Real Conservatorio de Danza Profesional de Madrid and the Escuela Nacional de Ballet de Cuba, has spent much of his career in Germany, where he has directed ballets for two decades.
“"Here we take talent for granted. We are a people who dance, unlike the Germans. There aren't many German dancers, which is why they embrace foreign talent. I would like to see more companies and stable centers created in Spain."
The director, who led the State Ballet of Nuremberg for seventeen years before taking over in Hannover, emphasizes the importance of opportunities in the dance sector. His professional journey led him to Germany at nineteen, where he established his career as a dancer and choreographer, assuming the directorship of the Nuremberg Ballet at thirty-three.
“"I built my career as a dancer mainly in Germany, where I started at nineteen. I was in Belgium, in England, but above all, in Germany. When I started choreographing, I came to Madrid for four or five years to work with some companies, and at thirty-three, I had an incredible stroke of luck because I was called to direct the Nuremberg Ballet."
The work Goldberg, based on Bach's variations and featuring contributions from composer Owen Belton, is one of the director's most personal choreographies. The piece has been adapted for its presentation in the Legazpi venue, with set design by Allen Wilmer and Gañán, and unique costumes designed by Salvador Mateu, where each outfit is custom-made for each dancer.
The initiative by a prominent cultural figure to bring national talent back has made this brief season of the German company in Madrid possible. Given the success and overwhelming reception, with all tickets sold out, a potential return in two years is already being considered, with a longer stay in the capital. The performances of Goldberg are scheduled at the Centro de Danza Matadero on May 7th, 8th, and 9th.
