In Agony...(please view larger)

I don’t know whether this is reality or theatricality. I don’t know your work or the context enough to surmise. But my feeling is that this is a very powerful image, and for that my sincere congratulations. Best regards.

I agree with the first comment, but still, from what I can see, the child on the right may be having communication issues, and it saddens me when I see the look on her face. The posture and expression of the other child is one of ambivalence and rejection, I imagine this is being done in a 'theatrical venue' but truly comes across very well.

John thank you for your comment.  No, this is not a theatrical scene nor it is a "set up" scene.  It's what I saw watching my niece's rehearsals for the Swan Lake, two girls, really, awaiting in agony for their turn on stage...I tried to capture their feelings and poses (body language), without disturbing them.  If I made it or not it's up to you to decide and tell me.  Thanks again! 

Gail, we were writing at the same time :)  There was a lot of stress that day since some of the girls would not be participating in the final show.  Some of them would be rejected and rehearsing was their chance to "shine"...thank you, cheers!

I too feel something very powerful in this. Not sure if this is about the composition, lighting or contrast but there is something that is difficult to look away.

Thank you Starvy too!

Here's another example of that stressful rehearsal that same day...

I see the anguish of anorexia in the face and body of the girl on the right.

Really beautiful work with very nice lighting, Panayotis!

With best regards,

Ruud.

Hola Panoyotis.

Excelente imagen, gran luz y composicion. Te felicito.

Un cordial saludo, Joaquín.

Its a great idea for a photograph, and you have carried it out really well, it extends far beyond just capturing an image, it captures mood and the essence of life itself, and maybe how much we are wiling to sacrifice for our art!

Compliments!

Alf

excellent composition and bw.

A serious and excellent image. The position of one hand does add an air of mystery. If only one girl made it through, My sense it would be the one on the right.

Very well done technically, in regard of composition and at most in emotional impact!

Bets regards my friend!

PDE

Wonderful expressions! ΚΑΛΗ ΧΡΟΝΙΑ ΦΙΛΕ ΜΟΥ.

-Δ-

This photo reminds me of my piano recitals when I was a child.  Such pressure!  The skin tones and composition are wonderful.  An excellent photograph!