After supporting Wales’ Rugby World Cup squad in Japan by performing their new rugby-themed work, the National Dance Company Wales will be preparing to score their next winning goal this month: to ensure that their work can be enjoyed by all people, in all of Wales, so that everyone across the nation can feel welcome and inspired to try contemporary dance and experience the magic of movement.
Roots will showcase four of the company’s favourite pieces made in Wales, including one by Swansea raised choreographer Anthony Matsena. Each will be short and dynamic, and tell a unique story through dance; exploring relatable themes of Welsh life and culture.
These thought-provoking and light-hearted performances are designed for audiences of all ages to enjoy. Each dance piece will be introduced to help everyone find their own meanings within the stories and followed by a Q&A session to share behind the scenes secrets of the choreographers and dancers.
A brand-new piece of work entitled Codi, by Swansea’s Anthony Matsena, is about Welsh people who come together to tackle isolation and depression during troubled times, inspired by miners and their families. It’s an energetic and uplifting dance about the strength of communities.
DeaRygbi: Annwyl i mi / Dear to me by NDCWales Artistic Director Fearghus Ó Conchúir celebrates rugby in Wales and highlights the hopes, glory and passion of rallying together on and off the pitch. Rygbi was created with input from rugby fans and players across Wales so that the dance truly echoes the sport.
Écrit by Nikita Goile was inspired by a letter from iconic artist Frida Kahlo to her partner Diego. The clever duet is performed by a female dancer and a giant silhouette of her lover. A beautiful power struggle that reflects the ups and downs of passionate relationships.
Why Are People Clapping!? by Ed Myhill is set to composer Steve Reich’s Clapping Music and uses rhythm as a driving force. The dancers use lively movement and clapping to create a soundtrack for the fun and dynamic dance.
The Roots tour is part of a four year programme to develop dance in new places across Wales and will visit venues in Caernarfon, Mold, Pwllheli, Aberdyfi, Narbeth, Ystradgynlais, Blackwood and Cardiff throughout November.
When: 7th – 27th November 2019
Where: Touring across Wales
£: Ticket prices vary, depending on the venue
More info: ndcwales.co.uk/roots-2019
Thanks so much for sharing Caroline, we do hope you can come along!