This project draws influence from the life and work of Andy Warhol (1928 – 1987). Warhol was a central figure in the pop art movement of the 1960s. His work presented images that encapsulated American popular culture at that time. Some of the best known examples of this are his prints of Campbell’s soup cans and Coca Cola bottles.
The main concepts 5 Dances takes from Warhol’s work are;
• Simple images being portrayed in a way which makes them visually striking
• The use of repetition on an absurd scale
• Ordinary tasks becoming extraordinarily engaging to watch.
5 Dances literally takes the form of 5 short dances, each one drawing on one or more of the above concepts, and developed through its own intricate process.
5 Dances was originally created in 2007 and was later revised in 2008 with support from the National Lottery through Arts Council England. In 2008 the piece was performed at choreographic platforms throughout the country, and at Buxton Festival Fringe, where the company received the festival’s award for dance.
Audience reaction to 5 Dances:
‘This is the first time that I have seen modern dance, and I did not think that it would interest me. Quite the opposite impression has been created, I found this display fascinating’
‘I didn’t expect to understand or appreciate it, and yet I did. Very impressed’
‘I didn’t feel I had to be ‘in the know’ to appreciate the dances – they were original, delightfully performed and great to watch!’
‘This was intelligent and beautiful. I now have more understanding of Warhol + dance’
‘The precision of the dancers, along with the dynamism of the choreography ensured that audience attention was held. In addition, a marked lack of dramatisation ruled, which felt very much in keeping with the nonchalance of Warhol.’ (Cloud Dance Festival Review: Mary Kate Connolly)
‘The company performed a prelude dance followed by four other dances. Each of the dances has been intricately and beautifully choreographed to create a stunning performance. Although the use of repetition was apparent the dances sustained interest throughout by slowly changing the movements from one fluid image to another. Before the performance started each person was given a programme; which included a short introduction to each dance, with an explanation on how they have been created and what has inspired them. This added a nice touch to the performance making the contemporary dances accessible to all people. This production is for anyone who would like to watch something original and fun, I believe that it is a Fringe must-see for 2008!’ (Buxton Fringe Review: Toni Saxton).
To see video clips and photographs of the 5 Dances project, go to our Gallery page.
