Cranko: the Man and his Choreography

John Cranko was a renowned choreographer who left his native South Africa at eighteen and became a resident choreographer with the Royal Ballet. He collaborated closely with luminaries such as Benjamin Britten and John Piper and encouraged the young Kenneth MacMillan. His work as director and choreographer of the Stuttgart Ballet enjoyed phenomenal success in USA, Russia and Europe. Fifty years after his tragically early death, Crankos story ballets continue to enrich ballet audiences around the world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2023
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

John Cranko, a renowned choreographer, left an indelible mark on the world of ballet with his exceptional talent. His journey began in his native South Africa, where he left at the age of eighteen and never returned. Despite his early departure, Cranko quickly established himself as a resident choreographer with the Royal Ballet in England. He collaborated closely with renowned musicians such as Benjamin Britten and John Piper, nurturing the talent of young choreographer Kenneth MacMillan. Cranko's creativity was boundless, and he devised a hit musical revue titled Cranks, as well as perennial favorites like Pineapple Poll. His charm and wit endeared him to colleagues and royalty alike, but his star began to wane in the late 1950s. This, coupled with a scandal, led Cranko to leave England for Germany.

In Germany, Cranko found immense success as the director and choreographer of the Stuttgart Ballet. His work enjoyed phenomenal success in the United States, Russia, and Europe, captivating audiences with its beauty and artistry. Fifty years after his tragically early death, Cranko's story ballets continue to enchant ballet enthusiasts worldwide.

The author, who had the privilege of dancing in the Stuttgart Ballets premieres of many of Cranko's masterpieces, delves into the man behind the masterpieces. The book offers a comprehensive exploration of Cranko's lesser-known works, shedding light on the creative process that shaped his ballets. Lavishly illustrated with rare photographs, the book also includes Cranko's personal letters and extensive reference material, providing readers with a deeper understanding of his life and work.

This second edition of the book is a testament to the enduring legacy of John Cranko, a choreographer whose talent and vision continue to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805141716
Edition number: 2 New edition