Wayne McGregor’s Woolf Works: A Transcendent and Unforgettable Masterpiece
Wayne McGregor’s “Woolf Works” presents a compelling exploration of Virginia Woolf’s literary legacy, combining dance, music, and design into a transcendent experience. The production uniquely adapts three of Woolf’s significant works to capture themes of memory, time, and identity.
Structure of “Woolf Works”
The performance unfolds in three acts, each drawing inspiration from Woolf’s influential narratives. The opening act, “I Now, I Then,” immerses the audience in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a character from Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway.” As the story progresses, Minimalist boxes designed by Ciguë create a versatile stage. This act is accompanied by a soundscape that reflects 20th-century London, featuring elements such as a ticking clock and a car horn.
Act One: “I Now, I Then”
- Featured character: Clarissa Dalloway
- Dance role performed by: Sarah Lamb
- Inaugural audio: BBC recording of Virginia Woolf discussing craftsmanship (1937)
Visual and Thematic Shift
The second act, titled “Becomings,” shifts visually and thematically. This segment emphasizes concepts like time travel and gender fluidity, embodied by a cast dressed in vibrant, gold-foil Elizabethan attire designed by Moritz Junge. The atmosphere is electrifying and abstract, driven by dynamic lighting and an innovative soundscape.
Act Two: “Becomings”
- Key dancers: Marcelino Sambé and Fumi Kaneko
- Thematic focus: Gender fluidity and historical transitions
- Design elements: Citrus-colored strobe lights
Concluding with Emotion
The final act, “Tuesday,” is inspired by Woolf’s “The Waves.” It dramatically addresses Woolf’s struggles, encapsulated by Gillian Anderson’s haunting narration of Woolf’s suicide letter. Dancers Sarah Lamb, Ryoichi Hirano, and Nadia Mullova-Barley bring profound emotion to the performance, embodying a poignant meditation on life and death.
Act Three: “Tuesday”
- Narration by: Gillian Anderson
- Key thematic elements: Life, death, and emotional resonance
Conclusion
In “Woolf Works,” Wayne McGregor masterfully intertwines the narrative forces of Virginia Woolf with the artistry of dance. This production not only serves as a tribute to Woolf’s literary contributions but also invites audiences to engage with timeless themes in innovative ways. The combination of movement, sound, and striking visuals creates an unforgettable experience, one that resonates deeply with anyone familiar with Woolf’s works.
