The Ninth Symphony by Maurice Béjart

About This Movie

The Ninth Symphony by Maurice Béjart is a fascinating piece, really. This 2015 film captures the first-ever recorded performance of Béjart's choreography set to Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, which is quite significant, especially considering the half-century since its premiere. You get to see the Tokyo Ballet and Béjart Ballet Lausanne collaborating on stage, and it’s almost overwhelming to think about the nearly 200 performers involved. The atmosphere is electric, and the way Béjart interprets Beethoven's themes through movement is distinctive, blending the classical with a modern interpretation. It's not just a dance film; it's a grand celebration of music and movement that invites you to reflect on the essence of unity and joy.

This film is a unique entry in the realm of dance and music recordings, being the first to document Béjart's celebrated choreography on film. While Béjart's works are well-known in the ballet community, this specific recording has garnered attention for its artistic ambition and the scale of its production. As a collector, it’s worth noting that this film has limited availability on physical media, making it a point of interest for those who appreciate the intersection of classical music and dance.