Maple Leaf Rag (ballet) she exits, the ensemble returns to joyous movement. The ballet is approximately 15 minutes in length. Three Scott Joplin rags provide the work's structure: "Maple Leaf Rag" (1899) opens the dance, followed by the waltz "Bethena" (1905) and "Elite Syncopations" (1902); a reprise of "Maple Leaf Rag" concludes the dance. The work is brimming with parodies of Graham's signature moves and send-ups of her best-known dances. Her twirling white-clad surrogate crosses the stage intermittently, accompanied each time by ill-boding percussive piano. Graham also pokes fun at the overwrought sexuality of some her repertory. Just before darkness hides the remaining couple
The Maple Leaf Forever of old, Into Canada's fair domain, This hallowed oath and legacy, We vow to yield it never!, For life and peace and liberty!, The Maple Leaf Forever!, The Maple Leaf, our emblem dear, The Maple Leaf Forever!, Long may it wave and God defend, The Maple Leaf Forever!, Thro' battle flame in lands afar, Our brave warriors side by side, For freedom, home, and lov'd ones dear, Firmly stood and nobly died, Their sacrifice and valour shine, Their Names Will Live Forever!, O Valiant hearts whose deeds proclaim, The Maple Leaf Forever!, The Maple Leaf, our emblem dear, The Maple