Legend says that during the height of Greek mythology Theseus defeated the mighty minotaur and escaped from its labyrinth with the help of princess Ariadne. Versions of the daring tale have been retold countless times throughout the ages and through different mediums. This September, the story will come alive again when Spark Youth Dance Company performs Ariadne at the Frankston Arts Centre.
During the 80-minute performance, dancers in Ariadne will take you on a journey into the the fabled maze of the monstrous minotaur alongside the hero Theseus and the titular Ariadne. Trapped on an island as the keeper of the labyrinth that houses the minotaur, Ariadne sees the chance to escape when Theseus comes to slay the beast. She gives the hero a peice of golden threat to help him navigate the maze but soon learns the labyrinth exists not only physically, but emotionally too. And while Ariadne can escape from the minotaur, she cannot escape from herself.
While the performance retells the classic Greek legend, it also uses metaphor to explore deeper concepts such as self acceptance and mental health. Ariadne features a cast of 23 dancers along with 40 professional musicians led by internationally renowned musician (and Melbourne local) Joseph Lallo. It’s being directed by Alex Dellaportas, a 20-year-old choreographer who is leading a cast made up entirely of dancers aged seven to 19.
You’ve just two chances to see Ariadne, with performances slated for September 27 and 28. Tickets can be booked online and are available now.