Chimaera - T2032818173Chimaera is the latest work from Fran Barbe Dance, whose previous works include Palpitation and Fine Bone Chine. Their work utilises contemporary Japanese techniques of Butoh and Suzuki in combination with western dance theatre and physical theatre. Their unique training methods results in a signature aesthetic, exploiting the power of minimalism and a taste for the fantastic and the grotesque to delight and involve audiences in the themes of their work. Chimaera is a hybrid creature, between fantasy and reality. In myth and art they are often considered monstrous, but this work explores the hybrid as a way of making sense of the constant state of change in our lives. We are by our very nature 'multiple'. Our myths and fairy tales are full of images of transfigurations, and so is our organic life from birth to death. Beginning with birth as a crash landing, the piece moves through adolescence and a bizarre ballroom on the cusp of adulthood, playfully exploring what makes us change throughout our lives. For this new work, the company mixes Butoh and ballroom dancing, and momentarily breaks into song, fully utilising the diverse skills of the performers in dance, acting and music.Choreographer Frances Barbe. Music Keith Johnson. Design Hannah Gravestock. Design Fran Barbe. Performer Dan Canham. Performer Laura Dannequin. Performer William Dickie. Performer Nina Fog. Performer Scarlett Perdereau. Performer Dominic Rouse. Performer Fran Barbe. | |
10 Oct 06 | Gulbenkian Arts Centre, Canterbury :: V673 listing details L777207713 |
23 Jun 06 to 24 Jun 06 | Hoxton Hall, Inner London :: V204 listing details L1264168183 |