Hungry Ghosts

The Joffrey Ballet

Studies in Blue February 2024, Lyric Opera House, Chicago

COMPOSER Jeremy Birchall SCENIC and LIGHTING DESIGN Jack Mehler CREATIVE DESIGN CONTRIBUTION Alice Williamson

The Opioid epidemic is one of the most seismic human tragedies of modern times. Devastating lives of rich and poor alike -  the numerical death toll has become so meteoric as to feel unreal. There is a key part of the story that statistics can’t tell and that words alone cannot do justice to. The blight of crippling addiction touches the lives of addicts and loved ones alike. The humanity, the relationships destroyed and the longing to feel connected. Where do we go with all our pain.

REVIEWS

“I was transported; I was captivated; I was ensorcelled and entranced. In short, STUDIES IN BLUE is the finest program I’ve ever seen Joffrey Ballet perform.”

“Hungry Ghosts has it all: hope and longing, failure and despair, ambivalence and impotent rage and resignation.”

“I was leaking tears by the end and was so glad for the standing ovation Quagebeur received for this world premiere performance – may her work advance to stages worldwide!”

Sars Maxell - Buzz Centre Stage

“A heartbreaking narrative about the perils of opioid addiction.

Knowing the theme, I kept looking for literal or gestural signs of addiction; fortunately, there aren’t many. Rather, “Hungry Ghosts” is an abstract journey that beautifully captures the grip and subsequent trauma drug addiction imposes on not just the addicted, but everyone around them.”

Lauren Warnecke - Chicago Tribune  ★★★★

“‘Hungry Ghosts' emerges as the centre piece of 'Studies in Blue,' a bold, abstract portrayal of the opioid crisis. Choreographer Stina Quagebeur, a talent from the English National Ballet, weaves a narrative that delves into the trauma and relentless grip of addiction. The performance captures not only the turmoil of those ensnared by their dependencies but also the ripple effects on the people around them. With stunning lighting and scenic designs by Jack Mehler, the stage transforms into a world where each movement tells a story of battle, despair, and the longing for escape.”

Nitish Verma - BNN

“‘Hungry Ghosts,’created by Stina Quagebeur, a Belgian-born choreographer based in England, represents a triumphal debut for the Joffrey. I feel fortunate to have witnessed the very first performance of this ballet, which bravely tackles the pitch-dark, painfully relevant subject of opioid addiction and its effect on the individual at the deepest level.”

Hugh Iglarsh - NewCityStage

“It was a privilege to witness this beautiful interpretation of the devastating effects of the opioid epidemic.” Quagbebeur's choreography has a perfect edge of menace and darkness blending with the haunting music of Jeremy Birchall.”

Kathy D.Hay - Third Coast Review ★★★★

“Stina Quagebeur’s “Hungry Ghosts,” a work set to an ideal score by Jeremy Birchall that captures the obsession and emotional isolation of those addicted to opioids (such drugs as heroin, fentanyl and others)…The response of the enormous opening night audience could not have been more intense or fully deserved.”

Hedy Weiss, WTTW, Chicago