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International Stars At The New Zealand Festival

By Francesca Horsley

 Shelagh Magadza, who directed the Perth International Arts Festival from 2008-2011, is also bringing out the celebrated Batsheva Dance Company from Israel, Spain's contemporary flamenco dance artist Israel Galvan and Ireland's Fabulous Beast who are making a welcome return.

Renowned Samoan-born theatre and dance artist Lemi Ponifasio and his company MAUwill be featuring two new works - The Crimson House (a world premiere) and Stones in her Mouth. Lemi’s work often delves into legends, myths and tradition and reconfigures them to reveal urgent present day concerns. The Crimson House probes the nature of power and subjectivity and through oratory, choral-work and dance, the performers turn a mirror on the massive social and political turmoil of our times.

In Stones in her Mouth, an ensemble of Maori women draws on poetry and chant to articulate a powerful and undisguised challenge. Through the Maori language, genealogy, spirituality and ceremony the women express resiliency and outrage in the face of power structures and oppression.

The Festival is also premiering Age by Ross McCormack, one of New Zealand’s rising choreographic stars. The work spans three generations, with ten year-old Harry Eathorne and theatre actor Mick Rose performing alongside highly regarded dancers Nicola Leahey, James O’Hara, Claire O’Neil, Luke Hanna and Alex Leonhartsberger.

Ohad Naharin, artistic director of famous Batsheva Dance Company, Tel Aviv, Israel, is bringing his celebrated Deca Dance to the Festival.  On a different note, Rian  a contemporary dance meets traditional Irish folk  dance company create the joyous sense of unity and community found in a traditional Irish pub. 

Read full article (Iss. 34)International Stars at the NZ Festival

 

 

International Stars At The New Zealand Festival

 
 
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