Category: DANCE

What to see at London’s Sadler’s Wells: INK by Dimitris Papaioannou

Stage dance INK

Buckle up for an extraordinary visual journey as Greek director, choreographer, and visual artist Dimitris Papaioannou makes a triumphant return to Sadler’s Wells Theatre. From Wednesday 28 February to Saturday 2 March 2024, be prepared to be mesmerised by the UK premiere of INK. Following the immense success of his sold-out and Olivier-nominated productions, The Great Tamer and Transverse Orientation, Papaioannou once again pushes the boundaries of hyper-visual dance theatre in this captivating new production. Papaioannou is renowned for his mastery in creating breathtaking visual spectacles, and INK is no exception. Set in an enigmatic water world, this spellbinding performance transforms a duet into a duel, driven by mythical primal forces. It’s a gripping battle between old and young, father and son, civilization and wasteland, stewardship and inheritance, and even eroticism and torture. Joining Papaioannou on stage is the talented dancer and collaborator Šuka Horn. With science fiction and horror as its filters, INK will immerse you in a world filled with hundreds of liters of water, a golden wheat field, and even an octopus. In 2018, Papaioannou became the first choreographer to create a new evening-length work for Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch since the legendary Pina Bausch’s passing in 2009. He also gained international acclaim for conceiving and directing the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. Rooted in painting and visual art, Papaioannou’s productions blur the lines between theatre, experimental choreography, and live performance. Expressing his excitement about INK’s UK premiere at Sadler’s Wells, Dimitris Papaioannou said, “I’m thrilled… Read More

Dive into the Darkness: Unravel the Mysteries of Sydney Spiegeltent’s MANSION

Spiegeltent Sydney woman dance

Sydney’s most enchanting and provocative entertainment venue, Sydney Spiegeltent, announces the exciting extension of its captivating season through 2024. Known for its daring and avant-garde performances, the iconic Spiegeltent is all set to mesmerize audiences with award-winning shows for many more nights. Get ready for a chillingly erotic experience this October as the MANSION makes its seductive debut in the Sydney Spiegeltent. From October 25th to November 19th, audiences will be swept into a thrilling world that combines gothic horror, intoxicating dance, spine-chilling aerial acts, and sultry burlesque performances. Expect a heart-thumping storyline that follows the newly widowed Mel Walker and her children, who unknowingly step into an ominous old Mansion filled with seductive spirits and demonic desires. The terrifying allure of MANSION is perfectly complemented by WITCH, a compelling 30-minute prelude performance available for a mere $35 extra. WITCH introduces audiences to the Mansion’s previous inhabitants through hypnotic burlesque, circus, and dance, posing a haunting question about the nature of monsters, victims, and mirrors of our own selves. Brought to you by the inventive minds of Bass Fam, creators of the award-winning shows MATADOR and ORACLE, MANSION is a tantalizing blend of alluring dance, scintillating burlesque, and thrilling acrobatics, which has left audiences and critics nationwide spellbound. Bask under the twinkling festoons of Sydney Spiegeltent, nestled in Sydney’s vibrant inner east, where the best of cabaret, circus, and theatre come alive. Not only can patrons enjoy the performances, but they are also treated to an eclectic mix of crafted cocktails, show-girl strength G&T’s, and… Read More

Experience the Captivating Dance Production: AM I by Shaun Parker & Company

From: https://stream.sydneyoperahouse.com/videos/shaun-parker-company-am-i-2014

In January 2014, Australia’s renowned contemporary dance company, Shaun Parker & Company, took the stage at the Sydney Opera House, captivating audiences with their groundbreaking production, AM I. This extraordinary dance and music collaboration, directed by Shaun Parker and featuring the mesmerising compositions of Australian composer Nick Wales, made its debut as part of the prestigious Sydney Festival. Following a sell-out season at one of the world’s most iconic performing arts venues, AM I garnered tremendous acclaim and quickly gained recognition both nationally and internationally. The production embarked on a remarkable journey, touring within Australia, captivating audiences in Europe and Asia, and earning nominations for numerous awards along the way. Now, as part of the Sydney Opera House’s 50th anniversary celebrations, this critically acclaimed and award-winning production is being brought to a wider audience through a beautifully filmed recording. From October 4 to November 4, 2023, viewers around the world will have the opportunity to stream this groundbreaking work, experiencing the artistry and innovation of Shaun Parker & Company from the comfort of their own screens. AM I delves into profound questions about identity and human existence. With a fusion of spoken word, highly physical choreography, intricate hand gestures, and ancient fan and stick weaponry, the production explores the essence of being human in our digitally connected global society. Drawing inspiration from disciplines such as physics, astronomy, anthropology, and more, AM I takes audiences on a thought-provoking journey that challenges perceptions and delves into the very core of our humanity. Set against the backdrop of… Read More

Love Spanish dance? Try the Flamenco Festival at Sadler’s Wells

Flamenco dancer

vibrant and passionate art of flamenco is currently taking centre stage at the iconic Sadler’s Wells theatre in London. The Flamenco Festival 2023, running from 15 July to 29 July, brings together a showcase of the world’s greatest flamenco talent in an electrifying celebration of this timeless Spanish tradition. The festival features an impressive line-up of international artists, including renowned dancer and choreographer, Maria Pages, who presents her latest work, “An Ode to Time”. This captivating performance is a reflection on the human experience of time and the inevitable passage of life, with flamenco music and dance expertly woven into the fabric of this deeply moving piece. Other highlights of the festival include the Gala Flamenca, featuring an all-male cast of contemporary flamenco mavericks, Manuel Linan and Alfonso Losa, whose high-energy performances showcase the evolution of this dynamic art form. But flamenco isn’t just about the performers – it’s an immersive cultural experience that embraces the soul of Spain and its people. From the ringing sound of guitar strings to the raw, impassioned wail of the cantaor (singer), the spirit of flamenco is infectious and impossible to resist. As well as the performances, the festival offers a range of workshops where participants can learn and explore the choreographic style of flamenco in greater depth. These sessions provide a unique opportunity to experience the passion and energy of the dance first-hand, under the guidance of experienced instructors. With its thrilling rhythms, intricate footwork, and emotive storytelling, flamenco is an art form that captivates and enchants audiences… Read More

Awakening Shadow: the new show at Carriageworks Sydney

Art sculpture

Sydney Chamber Opera is bringing its latest production, Awakening Shadow, and by all accounts it’s one to see. In a first Australian staging, Benjamin Britten’s five Canticles are entwined with a new work by leading Australian composer Luke Styles, performed by a quartet of singers and four musicians in front of a monolithic altar-like screen. The work channels Britten’s crisis of faith through the singing body and will be presented from 30 September – 7 October 2022. Awakening Shadow follows on from Sydney Chamber Opera’s previous successful stagings of Britten operas at Carriageworks with Owen Wingrave in 2013 and The Rape of Lucretia in 2017.  What to expect? The hour-long quintet of chamber works will centre on radiant tenor Brenton Spiteri, commuting between Britten’s intense demands and the brand-new world of Luke Styles’ response. Spiteri will be joined onstage by Sydney-born mezzo soprano Emily Edmonds, who has recently performed with the Royal Opera House, London and Komische Oper, Berlin, alongside Sydney Chamber Opera Artistic Associate soprano Jane Sheldon and the company’s frequent baritone collaborator Simon Lobelson. The singers will perform alongside a large screen that presents itself as an altar on which a new video work will unfold, exploring Britten’s complex and evolving relationship with faith. Australian Ballet School dancer Luca Armstrong has been captured in multiple poses using a technique called photogrammetry, using 120 synchronised cameras to then generate a 3D model that has been digitally manipulated in space. The resulting work features moving tableaux that are photorealistic yet hauntingly unreal, as if floating between life and death. Awakening Shadow Sydney Chamber Opera 30 September – 8 October 2022 Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh NSW… Read More

Melbourne: the NGV Triennial EXTRA festival returns

NGV Triennial 1

Art lovers rejoice! The National Gallery of Victoria’s Triennial EXTRA, its free late-night festival, returns in 2021 featuring a program stacked with live performances, DJs, dan ce, food, pop-up bars and after-hours access to the NGV Triennial exhibition, launching Friday 15 January and running nightly until 14 February. Here are some highlights to add to the diary. AS SHE FLOATS BY SCOTTY SO – Tue-Sun, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm – Exhibiting NGV Triennial artist Scotty So appears across the Ground Level of NGV International silently lip syncing a Chinese Opera inspired by the myth of the Chinese moon goddess Chang’e. Dressed in a holographic Tang dynasty style Hanfu robe with hair and makeup styled after the traditional images of the moon goddess, So performs as an offering to the spirits of the space. SCARLETT NIGHT BY SCOTTY SO –Tue-Sun, 8:30 pm – 9:00 pm – Scarlett So Hung So, artist Scotty So’s drag persona, takes visitors on a journey through time in Adam Nathaniel Furman and Sibling Architecture’s NGV Triennial installation Boudoir Babylon 2020, paying homage to Japanese actress and singer Yoshiko Yamaguchi, 60s songstress Rebecca Pan, Greek diva Maria Callas and Australia’s queen of pop Kylie Minogue. OPENING WEEKEND DJS – 15, 16 & 17 Jan, 6.00 pm – 9.00 pm – Setting the scene on the Forecourt and in the Garden, local DJs performing during EXTRA’s opening weekend include emerging talent Millú; local nightlife mainstay Andee Frost; disco, funk and electronic specialist Edd Fisher; and multifaceted classical house DJ and curator Merve. JEFF KOONS ON ICE BY HAMISH MCINTOSH – Mon, Wed & Fri, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm & 7.00… Read More

Sydney Dance Company’s 2020 season: What it’s all about

Sydney Dance Company 2020

Sure, it’s been 50 years of Sydneyside choreographic magic at the hands of Rafael Bonachela, but this forthcoming 2020 season is the last in a long line of awesomeness that takes them into the new decade. Next year, the Company’s exploring the thrill of pushing boundaries, both on stage and what they can do with the power of it, by partnering with other choreographers. The likes of William Forsythe and Bryce Dessner and Melanie Lane will join the resident director, Bonachela on an array of works, archival and new. Works along the lines of WOOF by Lane and ab [intra] by Bonachela will be presented as part of the lead-in to the next fifty years of dance magic at the hands of the Sydney Dance Company. As Bonachela says, “I look at 2020 as the start of the next 50 years for Sydney Dance Company. The year ahead is filled with national and international touring and it is always a great pleasure and privilege to share the performances of the extraordinary dancers of the company.” Keep your eyes on the Sydney Dance Company website for works coming up and how to get tickets.

Gaming, technology and dance take to the Camden stage in Sydney

Shaun Parker Zone

When Shaun Parker does a show, it makes headlines. The last instalment that was KING as part of the 2019 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras was testament to that. And this theatrical season, the company is back with In The Zone, a production that brings gaming technology and dance together on stage. It’s about mesmerising Airsticks technology which creates sound through movement, alongside outstanding hip-hop choreography from Shaun Parker himself, the Sydney choreographer and Artistic Director of this incredible company.  Performed by Western Sydney street and hip-hop dancer Libby Montilla, In The Zone will take you on a journey into the world of limitless imagination inspired by gaming and escapism. Creating an unforgettable show for all ages, In The Zone is perfect for dance lovers, avid gamers and those ready to witness a breathtaking combination of exceptional choreography and modern technology. The show will premiere at the Macarthur Auditorium, Camden Civic Centre, Oxley Street, Camden, NSW 2570 on Friday 13 September from 7pm. See more at the production’s website.

Sydney Dance Company’s ‘Us 50’ is a celebration of and homage to dance

Dance Us 50

A double bill will take to the Sydney Dance Company’s stage this November; a celebration of all the Company has done over the past 50 years. Entitled Us 50, the double bill, a creative undertaking by artistic director Rafael Bonachela and choreographer Gideon Obarzanek, will celebrate through dance, the last 50 years of the Company’s influence in taking Australian dance to the world. Comprised of past and current dancers to grace the Company’s stage, the work will also feature members of the dance community in Australia. It’ll embed the Sydney Dance Company as a production company for the people and give a little back through the chance to take to the stage with renowned dancing athletes in an intimate, celebratory way. “When we speak about 50 years of a dance company we also speak about 50 years of dance making,” said Gideon. “What is made, however, is ephemeral. The dancer’s body… can be videoed and photographed but dance itself only truly exists when it is danced. So, the history of the company is stored and transmitted through the bodies of its dancers and collected in the memory of its audiences.” Couple with that with the production of Bonachela’s award winning 6 Breaths. Since its 2010 premiere 6 Breaths has toured to New York, London, Barcelona, the Venice Biennale and the prestigious Movimentos Festival in Germany. A symphony of dance, music by Italian composer Ezio Bosso and costume design by Josh Goot, this is an emotive and breathtaking master work. See more at the Sydney Dance Company’s website.

CINCO by Rafael Bonachela and Sydney Dance Company: Contemporary dance at its best

CINCO Sydney Dance 1

Until 6 April, Sydney Dance Company and its artistic director Rafael Bonachela will hold a triple bill production at the Roslyn Packer Theatre in Walsh Bay, headlined by new work, CINCO. CINCO melds five virtuosic dancers, the award-winning lighting of Damien Cooper and the imagination and skill of fashion designer Bianca Spender with celebrated Argentinian composer Alberto Ginastera’s achingly magnificent String Quartet #2 from the mind of Bonachela. “The starting point for this work was the music, which is always a really big part of my process,” said Bonachela. “In this case I found Alberto Ginastera’s String Quartet No. 2, which I love. I’ve never heard of his string quartets before and they’ve never been used for dance. That was really the starting point for me. The music is in five movements. I wanted to work with five dancers and we’re also celebrating 50 years of Sydney Dance Company. If you look back, a lot of my works have numbers in them, so with Cinco it’s quite a coincidence that the music has five movements, and it’s also five decades of the Company. It all became about the number five.” Complemented for the first times by Australian designer Bianca Spender, the costumes of the dancers – other than being a delight in the movement of fabric to behold – fully explore the remainder of the tale Bonachela tries to tell. Through movement, music and space interact in harmony; working on and with one another in a culmination of muted tones, fluid movement and spacial beauty that is just truly… Read More