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Sampling the Myth combines dance and visual art in a modern exploration of ancient myths through performance and film. The programme includes: A special commission for award-winning artist Chris Ofili, who will work with rising star of British choreography Aakash Odedra and Royal Ballet dancers. Inspired by the myth of Prometheus as the creator of Man, Aakash has created a work that combines contemporary and classical Indian dance; while Chris will paint directly on to dancers' bodies, transforming them into transient living canvases. Extracts of Mikhail Fokine's The Firebird and The Dying Swan, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake, George Balanchine's Apollo, Wayne McGregor's Raven Girl and the world premiere of a new piece by Rambert's Miguel Altunaga. Marina Warner, the UK's foremost writer on myth, will provide an accompanying text for each of these. Three short dance films that explore the origins and retelling of Leda and the Swan will also have their world premiere. The films have been created by National Ballet of Canada's Robert Binet, rising choreographic talent Charlotte Edmonds, and internationally renowned choreographer Kim Brandstrup. These will also be broadcast live and for free on giant screens in the Paul Hamlyn Hall, alongside the live performances.