Bringing the vision to life

The dance drama "Astra von Berlifitzing," a waltz-ballet, is based upon a new libretto that draws on dark themes from Edgar Allan Poe's stories "Metzengerstein" and "Ligeia." It is danced to an original score that evolves from the 19th century classical style and orchestration of imperial Austria to the 21st century's cosmopolitan and transcultural Gothic form, the two however united under the discipline of the waltz. The story takes the female and male leads Astra and Dion through the birth of their passionate love, the disasters that alienate and part them, and their triumphant reunion in a fiery farewell to the world.

The story of Astra von Berlifitzing is told through David’s narration, Regan’s music, and the movements and (very few but powerful) words of the talented dancers and actors who are the Astratroupers.

High Priestess Regan’s vision is to create beauty in the world, to inspire people, to share wisdom and compassion, and to enhance bliss. From their first meeting more than ten years ago, David has wanted to create a story with which to lure and capture Regan's creative musicianship for just such purposes. The vision of Astra came to David in 2004 as a libretto to be presented to inspire Regan’s dreams. And that it did!

The story of Astra of course drew from the archetype of fated lovers (Romeo and Juliet, of course, but also Orpheus and Eurydice, Tristan and Isolde, Jason and Medea). Astra had a second root in the macabre metaphysics of Edgar Allan Poe's Metzengerstein and Ligeia; and a third root in David's favorite dance, the waltz. But Astra instantly outsoared these limits and became a very definite person in her own right!

David and Regan at once began a still-ongoing dialogue between story and music, characters and expressions of character. Very soon, however, Astra began to yearn for a physical embodiment--and of course this had to be through dance! In 2006, Regan's friends began learning waltz to the music of Astra, first in her living room and backyard, then in the Arthur Murray Studio in Sherman Oaks, then at Spiritworks in Burbank. The libretto came to life as a waltz-ballet. We became a company of friends and friends of friends From this nucleus of friends, the Astratroupers came into existence, and soon began to recruit professionals. Everyone we added brought key skills, and grew their skills for Astra.

Astra first showed herself to the world under the illumination of the firejets on the Shiva Vista Stage at Burning Man 2008. Then to Los Angeles for the Electric Lodge Preview Event, in April 2009. And now—onward!

- David Wilkinson and Regan Remy