Dark Ballet is Back: Why ‘Krampus’ is a Unique Holiday Movie Choice
The Realm Company Revives Dark Holiday Ballet ‘Krampus’
The Realm Company is set to stage its acclaimed dark holiday ballet “Krampus” this month, offering an alternative to traditional winter performances. The show returns for its second year with performances scheduled from December 13 to December 28 at The Electric Lodge in Venice.
“Krampus” is one of three productions that the nonprofit arts organization presents annually. Founder and choreographer Chasen Greenwood has crafted original storylines, often immersing the audience in darker themes and cinematic narratives. He has incorporated extensive research into Krampus folklore into his creation, reflecting themes of “control” and “obsession.”
Greenwood, a Dallas native, began his journey in the performing arts at the age of nine. He trained at esteemed ballet schools across the United States and started choreographing during his teenage years, earning recognition with a Regional Dance America award. After relocating to Los Angeles at 19, he toured with State Street Ballet and worked in film and television before establishing The Realm Company in 2022, transitioning it to a nonprofit in the following year.
“I wanted to create original stories and shows that really would appeal to not just ballet goers,” Greenwood explained. “I’m very inspired by ‘Lord of the Rings,’ very inspired by ‘Harry Potter.’ I’m very inspired by movies and cinema in general.”
Describing The Realm Company as a venue where ballet is experienced similarly to a cinematic production, Greenwood stated that their performances, typically lasting about an hour and 15 minutes, often draw in individuals who might not consider themselves ballet enthusiasts.
“We just want to make it accessible and create high-level entertainment that anybody could go see and enjoy,” he remarked. “We want everyone to feel like they can come see this and leave as if they saw a really awesome movie.”
The company holds rehearsals in Santa Monica and performs throughout Los Angeles, including venues such as Debbie Allen’s facility and locations in Pasadena.
Currently, funding for the shows relies on sponsorships, donations, and ticket sales. The organization has recently expanded its board and is working towards applying for grants. Each production features between six to 15 dancers, with auditions held at the Westside School of Ballet or through submissions from performers.
Taylor Briggs, who composes the music for the company’s performances, joined after his sister, a dancer with the company, introduced him to Greenwood. Praising Briggs’s talent, Greenwood noted, “I thought he was incredibly talented and knew he was the right fit.” A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Briggs has been involved in music since the age of eight. Their collaboration leads to unique productions featuring original compositions.
“He creates the music; I start to see the steps and more of the story. It really is what he creates I create off of and vice versa,” Greenwood shared.
Looking ahead, Greenwood envisions establishing Realm Studios, a production space that would accommodate the company, offer a training academy, and foster collaboration between dance and film.
“My goal is to create something different and change the story a little bit with ballet,” he said. “We love our Nutcracker, we love our Swan Lake, but let’s do something different with this company.”
Performance Details:
- When: December 13 to December 28
- Where: The Electric Lodge, 1416 Electric Avenue, Venice
- Cost: Ticket prices vary
