Rilke (UA) at Nationaltheater Mannheim

Following Résonances Chopin (2008) and Frida Kahlo (2010), Dominique Dumais chooses the work of another imposing artist as a source of inspiration for her new work. Rainer Maria Rilke wrote complex prose and poems creating powerful language systems along with strong poetic images.
Rilke was an observer, who could turn experiences into complex literary structures. In The Book of Hours, Duino Elegies, and the Sonnets to Orpheus, biographical insights are mixed with theory, fiction and associative thoughts. Connected by the most astonishing constellations, many of his creations hold an enigmatic linguistic appeal, dealing with love, life, death, human relationships and the multiplicity of things. The poet’s work was influenced by numerous journeys and encounters with eminent artists of his time. Friendships and love affairs with impressive female artists such as Lou Andreas-Salomé, Paula Modersohn-Becker and Clara Westhoff (who became his wife), had a great impact on his life and work. Furthermore, he maintained close relationships with personalities such as Auguste Rodin and Paul Valéry.

As a young choreographer Dominique Dumais was highly influenced by Rilke’s work and philosophy. Ever since, she has held a fascination for his profound insights into love, life and death. Her new work will focus on bringing to the stage Rilke’s inner world, rich with symbolism and imagery.