Byzantium is the centrepiece of a South Indian dance triptych, New Cities/Ancient Lands, which was created for and by the Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company for their 1991 tour across the United Kingdom and Europe. Jeyasingh is a well-known choreographer, respected in several continents for her pioneering work in combining Baratha Natyam, the classical Indian dance, with contemporary music by western composers.
Heavenly recorded voices soar in Christos Hatzis' score, and a lone oboist valiantly pipes piercing melodies that compel the dancers to dance, and our heads to sing with sheer pleasure. We emerge with images, melodies and colours imprinted in our minds, making us certain that we have enjoyed this evening greatly.
Byzantium...is an extraordinary work and those of us present were truly privileged to be witnessing the world premiere of what deserves to become a modern classic. Christos Hatzis...has come up with a remarkable piece of work that weaves intricate patterns with a blend of eastern and western, classical and modern, religious and secular, vocal and instrumental music.
