This May, Sadler’s Wells East invites audiences on a deeply emotional and visceral journey with the world premiere of KABEL, the latest work by the extraordinary Matsena brothers.
Fresh from their critically acclaimed run of Shades of Blue at Sadler’s Wells Theatre in 2022, Anthony and Kel Matsena return with an electrifying interpretation of one of humanity’s oldest stories.
Running from Monday 5th to Wednesday 7th May, KABEL explores the ancient tale of Cain and Abel, reimagined through the unique lens of the Matsena brothers’ movement and text. It’s an unflinching examination of love, betrayal, and the raw tangle of emotions that accompany sibling rivalry. At its core lies a question that has echoed through history – what drives the ones we love most to become our greatest betrayers, and what are the consequences of this ultimate fracture?
Dance Meets Ancient Myth
Drawing inspiration from the well-known biblical tale of fratricide, KABEL deftly weaves the beauty and brutality of brotherhood into a layered narrative. With motion and words, the brothers take audiences through the stages of life shared by Cain and Abel, the first brothers.
At first, the piece transports us to the joyful innocence of childhood, where bonds are formed with the carefree nature of youth. Then comes adolescence, where love evolves and jealousy finds its way into human connection. And finally, we are led to adulthood, where the warmth of shared youth cools into silence, tension, and an inevitable storm of betrayal.
Anthony and Kel Matsena capture the essence of these defining moments through a wise, expansive approach. Their work builds on themes of rage, joy, and sorrow in a narrative rich with movement, emotion, and raw intensity.
A Long Time Coming
For the Matsena brothers, this duet has been years in the making. Creative directors and lead performers Kel and Anthony share the significance of KABEL in their collaborative evolution, both as brothers and as artists.
“For years, while working on collective projects, we left aside the chance to really dance together in an exploration of how two bodies who understand words really well can move together, with each other and in a shared space,” they explain.
“Now, with this show, we have the opportunity to understand what our vocabulary is and to show who we are. It feels incredible to have our own creative leadership and click our double helix back together.”
There’s a palpable sense of excitement as the brothers bring their shared history and experiences to life in the purest, rawest form possible.
A Tale for Today
The universal themes within KABEL promise to resonate deeply with a wide range of audiences. Sadler’s Wells Associate Artistic Director Rob Jones echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are so excited to be presenting this work from the Matsena brothers at Sadler’s Wells East as they turn their unique movement style to this ancient tale of fratricide. I’m curious to discover new meaning in their exploration that has deep resonance and very much speaks to people today.”
Indeed, with their trademark blend of evocative movement and layered storytelling, the Matsena brothers may shine new light on an age-old tale, inviting us to reflect on its relevance in modern times.
Book Your Tickets Now
Don’t miss this compelling world premiere at Sadler’s Wells East. Performances will run from Monday 5th to Wednesday 7th May, with a press night on Tuesday 6th May at 7.30 pm.
Tickets are available from just £15. To book, visit www.sadlerswells.com.
This is not just a dance performance. KABEL is an experience that will stay with you, leaving you to ponder the bonds that hold us together, the forces that pull us apart, and the timeless question of why betrayal cuts the deepest when it comes from those closest to us.
Make sure you’re part of this remarkable show at Sadler’s Wells East.
Image: Laurentina Miksys