Ahead of São Paulo Dance Company’s first visit to the UK and Ireland, Ashley Sale, Marketing Manager at Norwich Theatre, previews what to expect from their highly anticipated tour that concludes at Norwich Theatre [this spring].
Having already performed in 160 cities across 18 different countries, it’s nearly Norwich’s turn to host this exciting, international award-winning company established in 2008.
Known for pairing contemporary dance technique with the rhythm and physicality of Latin American dance, São Paulo will present three bold, contemporary works from three choreographers rooted in Latin American or Spanish culture.
About the programme
The epic Anthem, created in 2019 by Spain’s Goyo Montero, resident choreographer with Cuba’s Acosta Danza, is inspired by songs that become hymns – anthems – for individuals, groups, generations and also nations. An ensemble of 14 dancers provides moments of high tension and real emotion as the piece reflects on different life cycles and our collective identities.
Gnawa, created by Nacho Duato, artistic director of Berlin State Ballet, draws on the Mediterranean colours and flavours of Valencia for a dance work powered by the hypnotic, ritualistic music of North Africa created by seven composers – Hassan Hakmoun, Adam Rudolph, Juan Alberto Arteche, Javier Paxariño, Rabih Abou-Khalil, Velez and Kusur e Sarkissian.
Lastly, Brazilian choreographer Cassi Abranches’ colourful and flirtatious Agora offers an exhilarating finale. Exploring time and rhythm, the movement of each dancer appears sculpted to the percussive beats and bass grooves of Sebastian Piracés’ music. This lively closer promises plenty of high-energy hip action, plus an Afro-Brazilian beat that will quickly grip you along with the entire auditorium!
Why you should see it
Being part of the Dance Consortium, Norwich Theatre is among a group of 19 large venues based in the UK and Ireland with a shared passion for bringing the best contemporary dance from across the world to captivate and grow local audiences like we have established here in Norfolk.
If you enjoyed recent shows presented by the Dance Consortium, such as Ailey 2, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo (“The Trocks”) and NDT 2, then you can expect to see more of the same exceptional work from the São Paulo Dance Company under the leadership of Inês Bogéa. With such a varied programme and the Company’s blending of different dance styles and influences, this show offers an ideal introduction for those new to contemporary dance too.
Or perhaps you’re simply looking to try something different? In which case, why not let one of South America’s leading dance companies lift you out of winter with a dose of sunny, Latin-American carnival rhythm and energy?
For more information or book, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000.
