primitive mysteries (2)

Primitive Mysteries is divided into three sections: Hymn to the Virgin, Crucifixus and Hosannah. A processional walk is performed before and after each of the three sections. According to Dorothy Bird, who took part ot the dance in 1931, they worked for months on the walk . The walk is done in complete silence and in unison by the group of twelve female dancers and the Virgin. The walk consists of a step forward suspended for a second mid-air, hands cupped and placed on one's own hips and torso in high contraction. No muscle is relaxed, but is shaped like marble. The effect is that of a ritual, intense and minimal.