Songs of the Elder Sisters was one of Chantry Dance's early works performed in 2013. The piece is one of three made in collaboration with composer Ronald Corp OBE and translator/lyricist Francis Booth.
The music is based on a collection of meditative poems written in the wisdom of old age by the nuns who lived and travelled with the Buddha 2,500 years ago and are the earliest known female canonical writings. The poems were translated by Francis Booth from the Buddhist Pali canon, and set by Ronald Corp for singers, flute, viola and clarinet.
The music is based on a collection of meditative poems written in the wisdom of old age by the nuns who lived and travelled with the Buddha 2,500 years ago and are the earliest known female canonical writings. The poems were translated by Francis Booth from the Buddhist Pali canon, and set by Ronald Corp for singers, flute, viola and clarinet.
The ballet follows the story of an older nun, Ambapali, and her three protégées Sela, Khema and Uppalavana. Ambapali passes on her knowledge to the younger nuns before they embark on a pilgrimage. They are able to use the wisdom they’ve learnt from Ambapali to ward off Mara the Tempter whom they encounter on their journey.
Choreography: Paul Chantry
Lighting design: Owain Davies
Composer: Ronald Corp
Lyricist/Translator: Francis Booth