Béjart’s Boléro

The Boléro (1961) choreographed by Maurice Bejart is a Masterpiece of the modern ballet, created in 1960 for the Serbian ballerina, Dušanka Sifnios. 

The dance features the Principal on a tabletop surrounded by seated men. Bejart's choreography begins in a simple yet intriguing single spotlight aimed at the right arm of the principal, followed by the second spotlight on the left arm; then both of her arms are in the spotlight following, and next, the entire stage is illuminated.

Gradually from the beginning, the principle movements build up the dance, adding complexity to the dance core in the orchestration, culminating in a climactic union of the dancers atop the table. 

Surrounded by a large number of men who sit at the edges of the stage.

It premiered on January 10, 1961, featuring Dušanka Sifnios dancing on the tabletop, first stepping to the tune's simplicity, surrounded by seated men, who, in turn, slowly participate in the dance, adding complexity to the building in the orchestration, culminating in a climactic union of the dancers atop the table. 

The choreography begins with a single spotlight aimed at the arm of the principle. The second time the theme sounds, there is the second spotlight on both of her arms.

Next, the stage is entirely lit.

Also, the movement the principle begins by simply moving from one bare foot to another, continuing with more intense motion as the music becomes louder.

At first, the men around move along minimally, but one by one they join principle’s tempting dance.

There is constant, elastic motion; Principles’ arms are supple as wings, and the men make sensual movements with their hips. The piece slowly builds up along a stretched crescendo to an inevitable climax, and one cannot help but give in and go along with it.

The drums, getting stronger and stronger, along with the Spanish melody will hypnotise even the spectator in the highest gallery seat. When the music suddenly stops, this unchains an immense applause from the audience that feels like a release.

Among the dancers, who performed Béjart's interpretation of "Bolero", was Sylvie Guillem.

Classical ballet and concert dance.