“Rites is an exploration of the natural forces which determine our ancient landscape. I have not tried to harness nature’s elemental forces – this human need for control is futile and meaningless. Rather, I have tried to capture the spiritual essence of these elements in 'snapshots' or flashpoints. Each of the elements - 'Earth', 'Wind', 'Fire', 'Water' – have their own ritual, their own special characteristics. They are complex, ephemeral moments occurring simultaneously in a non-linear time frame. Beginning with Awakening and completed by Dreaming, these elements are part of the great cyclic universal force: our spiritual essence, our Dreaming." - Stephen Page

Sections of Rites

Awakening
Earth
Wind
Fire
Water
Dreaming

Duration: 20 minutes

Rites premiered in 1997.

Rites toured in 2006 as part of the triple bill Gathering, which included Rites and Amalgamate.