CANDELAS (1997)
Choreography: Lily Cai
Music: Gustav Mahler's Symphony No.5, 4th Movement
Lighting Design: Cecily Chow

Choreographed with Cai's unique modern point of view, Candelas features her company in an intimate encounter with beauty and fire. Set to

the solemn music of Gustav Mahler, Candelas offers the candle as a symbol of humility. As the candle burns itself to fuel the fire, its gift reveals an intimate expression of beauty and elegance. In appreciation, the dancers move with a reverence towards their source of light...a commentary on self-sacrifice, respect and modesty.

PRESS QUOTES

• “Candelas by candlelight and the music of Mahler is a beacon for the beauty and wonders of life. With vague touches of lighting beyond candlelight, subtlety abounds through every breath this luminous piece takes. The physical control, the eloquence of movement, the superior extension of limb over reality work in tandem for one of the most translucent experiences dance theater offers. Candelas is gorgeous work. ”
~ Jack Neal, Nevada Events

• “There were sultry shoulder shimmies, and often there was stillness. The women played with fire, rising and collapsing, bringing the flames together like so many petals of a dangerous flower...It was original and quite attractive.”
~ Octavio Roca, The San Francisco Chronicle