ADT ignites choreography
Australian Dance Theatre’s “Ignition” program is all about giving emerging and mid-career choreographers the opportunity to showcase their talents. Each presenting a ten-minute work in the 2016 “Ignition” program are Thomas Fonua (ADT), Matte Roffe (ADT), Erin Fowler (independent) and Katrina Lazaroff (independent). Former ADT dancer and emerging choreographer Lina Limosani will present a 30-minute commissioned work. The pieces are all inspired by the theme of “history” and Limosani’s is part of a development of her new work One’s Wicked Ways.
“Ignition” was first launched by ADT by the company’s artistic director Garry Stewart in 2000. Choreographers who have been supported by “Ignition" include Larissa McGowan, Ross McCormack, Antony Hamilton, Daniel Jaber, Tanja Liedtke and Lina Limonsani. “It’s deeply satisfying that the company can provide a forum for independent choreographers,” says Stewart. “We are taking a real leadership role in developing the next generation of choreographers.” Stewart believes that the physical staging of a piece, with set, costumes and lighting and performing it in front of an audience was a critical learning tool.“This is a crucial stage in the development of a younger choreographer – they need the opportunity to have their work seen in a theatre context, not just in the rehearsal studio,” he remarks.
“Ignition” will take place at the Adelaide College of the Arts, 9-16 July.