Woolf Works
Royal Opera House  | ★★★★✩

Woolf Works, Wayne McGregor’s three-act ballet (described as a triptych in the programme) is based on the works of Virginia Woolf and is back on stage at the Royal Opera House for a short run. In it he recreates the themes found in three of her novels: Mrs Dalloway, Orlando and The Waves. He eschews a traditional narrative structure in favour of capturing the mood and spirit of Woolf’s writings.

On opening night, the lead was danced by Alessandra Ferri. It is worth remembering that she turns 60 in May – what a privilege it is to see her still able to command the stage with her presence. How extraordinary to know that she was dancing major roles with the Royal Ballet before most of the current members of the company were born! She still brings a wonderful quality of stillness and power to all that she does. (The role will also be danced this season by Natalia Osipova and Marianela Nunez, so it will be interesting to see what they bring to the part of the desperately troubled Virginia Woolf.)

The first act, which is an interpretation of Mrs Dalloway, is dark and rather sombre, with a haunting score by Max Richter. An element of melancholy pervades the entire piece but it is rather beautiful.

185A715B1274438581A2091651E6F92B

Wayne McGregor eschews a traditional narrative structure in favour of capturing the mood and spirit of Woolf’s writings (Image: Asya Verzhbinsky)

The second, based on Orlando, fizzes with energy and is much faster paced. The time-travelling, shape-shifting Orlando is gender fluid (Woolf was ahead of her time in this respect), and the cast fairly whizz through the choreography. There is great use of colourful laser light, which at points floods the auditorium and of the three pieces, this appeared the most popular with the audience.

The final act is the most moving and begins with actress Gillian Anderson, in a voice-over, reading moving Woolf’s suicide note. The work looks at life cycles; the beginning and end, the continuing journey from childhood to adulthood and beyond. Once again, Ferri dominates the stage but the rest of the cast also perform with commitment and passion.

Do not go along expecting to follow a distinct story – McGregor is seeking to distil the essence of Woolf’s writings in dance form and in this, he succeeds. So do not try to make sense of it, just sit back and enjoy the spectacle.

The Royal Ballet is in Woolf Works at the Royal Opera House until 23 March