Russell Maliphant's 'The Thread' weaves Greek myth into mesmerizing dance

British choreographer Russell Maliphant premiered 'The Thread' at Sadler's Wells in London on March 15, 2019, a dance piece loosely inspired by the myth of Ariadne and the Minotaur. The work blends contemporary and traditional Greek dance, incorporating influences from T'ai-Chi and Capoeira. Eighteen dancers—twelve contemporary and six traditional—perform in shifting formations within corridors, squares, and circles of intermittent white and gold light designed by Michael Hulls. The electronic score by Greek composer Vangelis features traditional instruments. Costumes by Greek-London designer Mary Katrantzou draw on ancient vase paintings and Egyptian silhouettes, with women in blue and red patterned skirts and men in dark trousers, boots, shirts, and red sashes. The production was co-produced by Megaron Athens Concert Hall and Sadler's Wells London, with collaboration from Marche Teatro, including a residency and preview at Teatro delle Muse in Ancona.