Where We Meet: the choreographic journey
Grounded in the words of each inner monologue
Creating "Where We Meet" choreography has been a profoundly immersive and intricate process. This performance stands out due to its unique demands, both from the interaction with sophisticated tech mechanics and the dynamic engagement with the audience. Each show is unique because the audience's reactions and choices shape the performance in real time, making every rendition a fresh and unpredictable experience. Thanks to the interactive system, audiences who are tracked in the space will hear the inner monologues of each character as they get close to them. But it is each dancer who drives the dramaturgic structure in real-time by deciding which type of content they want to share with the audience.
Beyond the interaction with technology, "Where We Meet" has been created around three distinct characters, each centred around a specific mental health challenge - each requiring a tailored approach to movement. The choreographic process began with Emma Nuttall's brilliant texts, the inner monologues of each character she wrote - inspired by our conversations and the information we gathered from lived experiences in interviews. Her words offer a foundation for understanding and exploring the characters' personalities. From these texts, I started imagining how each character might move and how their physical expressions align with their inner worlds.
Movement cells, anchors and improvisational score
Working closely with the dancers, we collaboratively selected words and images that resonated with us. This inclusive process ensures that everyone involved feels part of the journey and that the dancers feel an honest connection with the characters, finding what they have in common with the character or clear elements to embody. These elements become the seeds for what we call 'movement cells or anchors'—short, signature sequences that capture the essence of each character. These cells are not just choreographed movements but are imbued with the character's unique traits and emotions.
Our studio sessions were intensely immersive. We dedicated significant time to ensuring that our movements are authentic and genuine representations of the characters. It's not just about performing steps; it's about embodying the essence of each persona. We explore ways to move that feel real, truthful, and present in the moment. This deep work helps the dancers inhabit their roles fully, allowing the audience to experience the characters' true nature.
The movement cells are then woven into an improvisational score. This score is a flexible framework where specific movement tasks guide the dancers, ensuring they maintain the character's nature while allowing room for spontaneity. This approach is crucial, given the interactive and ever-changing nature of the performance. The dancers must be prepared to adapt and respond authentically to the audience's choices and reactions, making each performance unique and alive.
A delicate balance between structure and freedom
In essence, choreographing 'Where We Meet' is a delicate balance between structure and freedom. This balance ensures that every performance remains fresh and engaging, reflecting our work's dynamic and ever-changing nature. It's about providing the dancers with a clear, character-driven foundation while giving them the space to explore and respond in real time to the audience.
Through this process, we aim to create an immersive experience where the audience feels genuinely connected with the characters and the unfolding narrative. It's a challenging yet profoundly rewarding journey; seeing it come to life with each performance is genuinely fulfilling.
—
Curious about Where We Meet?
Join us on the 12th of August 2024 for Camden Fringe at Theatre Technis in London!