 |
|
June 24, 2005
Contemporary Dance, Arial Dynamics
Strange to think that someone whose name seems so familiar is only now drawing to the end of her new company’s first tour. I’ve no idea whether it’s my passion for extremes that means I’m familiar with Lindsey Butcher's reputation or whether she really is as respected as I believe!
I met her last night at the Royal Opera House. Although she lounged on the chair and her body language was very relaxed I could tell that she was conscious and in complete control of every single movement she made. I get the feeling she controls what she says in the same way. Throughout the interview she was as careful with her words as a writer (something I recognise), answering my questions and expressing herself clearly and with an engaging openness that made me want to go back, interview her again and maybe see if she'll let me try out one or two of the easier moves...
Also responsible for coordinating and developing this complex performance (6 separate pieces, all with different forms and spaces, choreographers, film makers, musicians, performers and props which take significant time to erect), her company’s first performance is an organisational coup as well as a fascinating experience. At different times and in different combinations the pieces conveyed control, abandon, humour, langour, support and passion, and the audience engaged with a serious intensity that I’ve not seen before.
Combining the extremes of contemporary dance with music, film, floor dance and aerial displays (one of which was outside in the Covent Garden Piazza) was a huge creative risk that paid off spectacularly well. The performance is a sensation seeker’s dream!
Lindsey Butcher’s new company Gravity and Levity is at the Royal Opera House until June 25th. www.roh.org.uk
Details of my feature on Lindsey will be released later.
 |
 | ||||||||
|
| ||||||||
|
| ||||||||
|
| ||||||||
|
| ||||||||