Theatre of the Society for Macedonian Studies
5 and 6 June, 21:00
 
Hatched Ensemble
by Mamelas Artistic Movement
 
Ten dancers timidly balancing on the tips of their pointes with their backs turned to the audience, on the tones of Camille Saint-Saëns' Le Cygne, so opens Hatched Ensemble. While hiding their faces, they display small, handcrafted ironwork sculptures. The captivating choreography is developed by South African artist Mamela Nyamza, known for unapologetically demystifying, deconstructing the history of dance, while trampling on the norms and standards of the classics. Using sparse household materials, clothespins, a clothesline, plastic ponchos and red aprons, the dancers evoke images reminiscent of domestic labor, that evolve in an exceptionally precise and touching way. Referencing both classical Western music, dance and South-African vocal scores, they juxtapose movement vocabulary from their diverse cultures. The dancers convey deeply personal stories challenging race and gender norms, while their movements are peppered with moments of miniaturized ballet, performed with frantic, joyful release. With minor gestures and major sensitivity, a whole universe is opened up, one that dance history would never have suspected to exist, overflowing from urgency and subtle virtuosity. 
 
Duration: 70΄

Following the performance (5/6), a discussion with the audience will take place, moderated by Dimitri Sotiriou (choreographer, contemporary dancer).  
The discussion will be accompanied by simultaneous interpretation in Greek Sign Language.