The Goldberg Variations
This work is intended to be viewed in order from the opening aria, through all the variations to the closing aria.
Program
The Goldberg Variations (1997)
Mark Haim’s The Goldberg Variations is a series of 32 solo variations, set to Bach’s famous score by the same name. The solos range from vibrant full bodied movements of exuberance and joy, to slow durations embodying defeat and resilience, to a water fountain come to life, a football player, a backup singer, and more. The Goldberg Variations passionately explores the extents of moving through life.
In the beginning of the semester, Mark gathered with J.e. Kim and a cast of ten to learn the entire 80 minute work. A show was scheduled for April 29th, in the Y Gym Dance Theater. Variations were divided amongst the cast members, and rehearsals were underway to refine and fully embody each one.The glimmers of a show were there; it was falling into place.
Yet, as the times have changed and this show will no longer occur in the way it was originally intended, the life of The Goldberg Variations has not been erased. It has unfalteringly persisted.
With the guidance of J.e. and Mark, each cast member has reimagined these variations in various virtual formats. These include films, writing scores, illustrations, a visit to the playground, an ice cream eating contest of one, a skin care routine, a nostalgic waltz to Franky Bradley’s, many bedroom dance parties, and more.
The Goldberg Variations holds the emotionality and expressivity of encountering the many facets of being. Even in these circumstances, the care and passion each person has brought to this work shows that even in times of crisis and separation, dance will continue, life will continue, and our capacity to love is endless. (Nicole Bradbury, '20)
Choreographer: Mark Haim
Rehearsal Director: Jungeun Kim (J.e.)
Performers/Collaborators: Nicole Bradbury, Emani Drake, Sammie Gilberg, Neva Guido, Mads Klemm, Miah Lapeyrolerie, Lily Mello, Kira Shiina, Jordan Ricks, Patrick Wright
Music Credits: Daniel Barenboim, Paul Barton, André Gribou, Igor Levit, Senti Mental, Alex Villalonga, Megan Thee Stallion, “Running Up Freestyle”, Beyoncé. “Freakum Dress"
Aria
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 10
Variation 11
Variation 12
Variation 15
Variation 16
Variation 17
Variation 18
Variation 19
Variation 20
Variation 21 & 22
Variation 23
Variation 24
Variation 25
Variation 26
Variation 27
Variation 28
Variation 29
Variation 30
Aria (closing)
Thank you.