Director Chelsea McMullan's documentary Swan Song offers an intimate look into the drama-filled world of the National Ballet of Canada. It trails artistic director Karen Kain leading a modernized production of Swan Lake in her final year, before retirement. The anticipated retirement was pushed back in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic halted the production months before the scheduled opening night.
Swan Song, premiering on-demand and in select theatres on July 26, opens two years after the pandemic-induced pause, eight weeks before the much-anticipated company debut, and follows the proceeds amidst the high-stakes pressure of the pandemic aftermath.
Documenting the complex journey of staging such an iconic production, Swan Song examines Kain’s career, her determination to update Swan Lake, and tackles pertinent subjects such as racism, class, and eating disorders in the ballet industry. The documentary, aided by Brendan Mills’ adept editing, reveals the emotional, physical, and psychological struggles experienced by the dancers.
Among the contributors, Jurgita Dronina, a principal dancer, and Shaelynn Estradra, a corps dancer from Texas, offer their insights on the structure, the challenges, and the ultimate rewards of being part of the ballet company. A wealth of archival footage, dance scholars, and critics enrich both the historical context and the modern interpretation of Swan Lake.
A poignant aspect of the documentary is Kain’s bold decision to discard tights for corps dancers to give a more contemporary feel to the production. This task lands on the shoulders of choreographer Robert Binet who works to amalgamate Kain’s vision with the dancers’ skills.
Swan Song shines particularly during the dramatic last act, as the buzz of opening nights fills the air. McMullan, along with DPs Tess Girard and Shady Hanna, captures the audience's anticipation and the anxiety backstage. When on stage, the sheer effort and artistic craft of the dancers become breathtakingly palpable. The documentary succeeds in capturing Kain's initial vision - a deeply moving, emotive rendition of Swan Lake, enough to bring an audience to tears.
