Nephtali
OPÉRA NATIONAL DE PARIS
Directed & Animated by Glen Keane
“Nephtali,” which refers to Jacob’s blessings and Psalm 42, was born from the comparison between the grace of a dancer and that of a deer. In a choreography which Glen Keane created with dancer Marion Barbeau, he depicts the journey of a soul that is drawn towards a higher power, fights a struggle and is eventually liberated. Nephtali was created for the Paris Opera for the launch of its new digital stage called the 3e Scène (3rd Stage).
“It was a humbling experience for me to work as an animator in the Opera Garnier. It is a place steeped in the heritage of the craft and art of ballet. I was astounded by the expressiveness and power of the dancers I drew. There is a close connection between dance and animation. I was taught by my mentors at Disney to think in terms of ‘golden poses’ that communicate the emotion and attitude of the character. I noticed in ballet the same use of these ‘golden poses.’”
