Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq

Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq is a 2013 documentary feature film, directed by Nancy Buirski. The movie hones its spotlight on the life, the career, the challenges as well as the victories of acclaimed American ballet dancer, Tanaquil 'Tanny' Le Clercq. Tanny's contribution to the world of dance, her indomitable spirit, and her battle with polio form the crux of the narrative. This poignant documentary also features interviews with recognized figures from the ballet world, including Jacques d'Amboise and Barbara Horgan.

Named after one of Tanaquil's most celebrated performances in Balanchine's 'Afternoon of a Faun', the film starts with her early life and the journey that led her to become a prominent figure in 20th-century ballet. The audience is shown vintage footage, archival photographs, and interviews providing a deeper perspective into the world of ballet during Tanny's time, and more specifically, her influence within it. The film elucidates Tanny’s influence across the global arts community; her compelling performances, not merely limited to her groundbreaking interpretation of the Debussy's 'Afternoon of a Faun', but including the many ballets she inspired George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins to create.

One profound aspect the movie touches upon is the personal and professional relationship between Le Clercq and the two most influential figures in her life - George Balanchine, a Russian choreographer widely considered as the founder of American ballet and Jerome Robbins, an American choreographer who was instrumental in bringing ballet into mainstream American culture. Tanny was not only their muse but she was also Balanchine's wife. This triangle of art, love, and mentorship adds an intense emotional underpinning to the narrative.

Dancer Jacques d'Amboise, who was Tanaquil's partner in many performances, provides his enduring and insightful commentary on their performances together, adding a sense of personal reminiscence and professional respect to the narrative. And, Barbara Horgan, Balanchine's longtime assistant, chips in with anecdotes and insights about Tanny’s relationship with Balanchine and Robbins and her enduring legacy in the world of ballet. Their testimonies add further depth and insight, painting a distinct picture of Tanny’s unassailable place in ballet history.

In 1956, at the peak of her dance career, Tanaquil Le Clercq was struck by polio, which led to her sudden departure from the stage. The film does not flinch away from this harsh reality and delves into Tanny’s personal fight against the disease. In doing so, however, it never loses sight of the dancer she was, integrating this tragic impact in an understanding and respect-filled manner. Her courage and determination are at display as she finds new ways to stay connected with the art form she loved deeply - being a mentor and a consultant, teaching at Dance Theatre of Harlem, and more.

Adding a layer of richness to this cinematic experience is the background score. A blend of classical music, including pieces by Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky, and Debussy, along with jazz - all music that was part of Le Clercq's life, helps evoke the necessary emotions for this moving portrayal.

Expertly weaving together personal interviews, archival footage, correspondences, and Tanny’s own words from letters and acceptance speeches, the film succeeds in delivering an intimate portrait of an artist and a woman who despite her unforeseen circumstances, never gave up her passion. It offers a compelling look into the world of ballet during the mid-twentieth century, the impact of Tanny's performances, and her enduring strength in the face of adversity.

Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq encapsulates not just the career of a brilliant dancer, but the spirit of an indomitable woman. It highlights Tanny’s irrevocable impact and continued influence, her inspiring force that celebrates the unity of human spirit and art. It's a poignant, informative, and inspirational film, a must-see for not only ballet lovers but anyone interested in stories of exceptional talent, undying passion and courage in adversity.