2021 - NOW KINETIC DIALOGUES

  • Title: KINETIC DIALOGUES
  • Year: 2021 - NOW
  • Duration: Ongoing
  • Collaborator: Cyril Baldy, Varinia Canto Vila, João dos Santos Martins

In the summer of 2021, I initiated a collaborative dance project with João and Varinia, two remarkably talented dancers. My practice, a synthesis of diverse dance forms like Ballet and Jazz, emphasizes sensation over form and values the upturning of traditional hierarchies within the dance world. We leverage a relay-based rehearsal structure that blurs the lines between dancer and choreographer. This process involves extensive observation, note-taking, and mutual coaching to build a deep understanding of each other's movement tendencies.

Our journey, which began remotely due to the Covid pandemic, led to the mastery of task-based strategies and movement languages for the choreography of 'Remains Persist'. In the fall of 2022, we convened in person to advance our work, drawing on my experience as a choreographer and stager of William Forsythe's work. Through workshops, we explored Forsythe-inspired improvisation techniques, evolving our practice with my Sentient Method.

Our collaboration has led to invitations to perform at prestigious venues such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (2023), Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University (2024), and The Chocolate Factory Theater (2025). We currently meet online for pre-production and research meetings for these projects, especially since our intense preparatory work in May after Moriah Evans's site visit.

João and Varinia, both alumni of P.A.R.T.S., bring their impressive background in contemporary dance, including rigorous training in the Forsythe technique, which is integral to my work. Their individual pursuits, collaborations, and unique perspectives enrich our collective practice. João, an award-winning choreographer, has collaborated with renowned artists and founded Coreira, a periodical dedicated to contemporary dance. Varinia, a performer and choreographer, has worked with top European choreographers and holds a Masters degree in Art and Politics from Goldsmiths University, London.

What solidifies our ensemble is the shared skills, trust, and genuine collaborative spirit we have nurtured over years. We aim to continue evolving through dialogue, bringing our unique dance practice to various stages.