NYCB Vol. 14 No. 13 - Scotch Symphony

Maria Tallchief on Scotch Symphony:

“One effect in the adagio was inspired by the way goddesses, sylphs and fairies were made to fly onstage in the nineteenth century by use of wires. George simulated it by having a group of boys toss me high into the air while I sailed ford, landing gently onto André’s chest. He wanted it to look as if I were soaring through space.

“After the opening night, one critic wrote that I danced with the tenderest sensibility in the new ballet. Another said I looked as if the air were my true home. That was a relief because most of the time being tossed around frightened me. I hoped it didn’t show. Some people could tell though. After one performance, Choura Danilova and Alicia Markova came backstage […] ‘How nice to see you, Maria,’ Choura said. ‘Lovely, lovely. But, you know, dear, when you’re thrown in the air, neck must be arched, head must be up high. Must be unconcerned.”

“’Well, yes, Choura, I know,’ I said. ‘ I’m trying to be serene, but I’m scared to death Andre’s not going to catch me. Four of those boys are tossing me, and he’s got to catch me all by himself!”

-- Maria Tallchief: America’s Prima Ballerina