Beyond the Stance

This sharply contrasting double bill from one of France's most lyrical radical choreographers is a return to the roots of New Territories and a striking example of Catherine Diverres' range and eloquence.

Inspired by Oskar Schlimmer, SAN is a piece for four dancers, echoing the decadance of the Weimar Republic in a visual treat. Evocative of Schlimmer's simple curves and dazzling mazes, its daring lighting design and subtle set conspire towards a magical world, suspended between Surrealism and Expressionism.

Stance 11 emerges from Diverres' interest in butoh and recalls the atmospheres of early contemporary dance. In near darkness and silence, with only Pasolini's poetry as soundtrack, the female soloist almost fades in the black, seeming to manifest a deep internal dialogue that gradually becomes defiant and sturdy.

Although Diverres is an acclaimed choreographer, the use of stillness and memorable imagery link these dances to visual art, suggesting an installation with human bodies acting as the medium and subtly conjuring moods and emotions.