Igor Stravinsky

Aspects of Stravinsky's often disputative relationship with the impresario Sergei Diaghilev of the Ballets Russe are explored in "Nijinsky" (1980). The young Nijinsky is at a loss when confronted with the daunting assignment of choreographing the composer's revolutionary work Le Sacre du Printemps (The Rite of Spring) (1913) which depicts scenes from an ancient, pagan Russia. The difference between the way that musicians and dancers count rhythm becomes an extended, albeit frustrated joke as dancers are shown having breakdowns at rehearsals and Nijinsky shouts beats from the wings at the premiere. Diaghilev walks through the riotous audience urging them to listen to the music even if... Full Biography