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Lecture

Patrick Bade
Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes, Part 2

Sunday 29.05.2022

Summary

In the second part of the lecture about Sergei Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes, Patrick Bade discusses various events and transformations within the Ballets Russes during the early 20th century. He covers the scandalous premier of Stravinsky’s “Rite of Spring” marking a shift towards a tougher modernism in Diaghilev’s taste. The lecture then discusses Nijinsky’s marriage to Romola Polski, which led to his dismissal from the company, Diaghilev’s recruitment of Léonide Massine and the failed production of “The Legend of Joseph.” Additionally, Patrick explores the internationalization of the Ballets Russes and the personal dramas and conflicts within the company as well as the cultural and artistic shifts during this period. Part 2 of 2.

Patrick Bade

An image of Patrick Bade.

Patrick Bade is a historian, writer, and broadcaster. He studied at UCL and the Courtauld Institute of Art. He was a senior lecturer at Christie’s Education for many years and has worked for the Art Fund, Royal Opera House, National Gallery, and V&A. He has published on 19th- and early 20th-century paintings and historical vocal recordings. His latest book is Music Wars: 1937–1945.

Only in the first two seasons, and then she set up our own company.

I don’t think it was meant to be a true picture. I mean it’s got elements of Diaghilev. It’s a bit of a caricature.