David LaChapelle directs Sergei Polunin in blues-inspired dance video
David LaChapelle, the internationally renowned photographer and director known for his glossy fashion-pop aesthetic, has created a music video for Sergei Polunin, the 25-year-old former Royal Ballet dancer now starring at the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre. The video features Polunin performing a contemporary choreography by Jade Hale-Christofi to the hit song "Take Me to Church" by Irish band Hozier, which was nominated for a Grammy Award. Set in a bright, unfinished building within a garden, the stark visual contrasts with the song's dark indie-gospel tone, which criticizes religious obscurantism and advocates for freedom. LaChapelle, who has previously directed videos for Elton John, Christina Aguilera, Amy Winehouse, Norah Jones, and Mariah Carey, here adopts an unusually essential and lyrical style, focusing on Polunin's technical skill and expressive power, his body covered in tattoos. The video has gone viral, attracting a wide audience.
Key facts
- David LaChapelle directed the video.
- Sergei Polunin is the dancer, age 25.
- Polunin was a student and dancer at the Royal Ballet.
- Polunin is now a star at the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre.
- The choreography is by Jade Hale-Christofi.
- The music is 'Take Me to Church' by Hozier.
- The song was nominated for a Grammy Award.
- The video is set in an unfinished building in a garden.
Entities
Artists
- David LaChapelle
- Sergei Polunin
- Jade Hale-Christofi
- Elton John
- Christina Aguilera
- Amy Winehouse
- Norah Jones
- Mariah Carey
Institutions
- Royal Ballet
- Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre
- National Dance Awards
- Grammy Awards
Locations
- Novosibirsk