Melbourne's acclaimed contemporary dance company, Chunky Move, is set to make a landmark international splash with the European premiere of their latest work, U>N>I>T>E>D. Following its standout debut at this year's Asia TOPA Festival, the visionary production, under the direction of Artistic Director Antony Hamilton, is heading to Biennale Danza 2025 in Venice this July, playing to sold-out crowds. This marks Chunky Move's first-ever presentation in Italy, a significant moment for Australian contemporary dance on the global stage.
U>N>I>T>E>D is described as a visceral, stage-shaking spectacle – a powerful collision of dance, Javanese trance-techno by Gabber Modus Operandi, and experimental costume design from Bali-based streetwear label Future Loundry. The production also features cutting-edge animatronics by Creature Technology Co, the world-renowned team behind impressive arena-scale creations like King Kong.
Audiences are invited directly onto the stage with six dancers to experience a hypnotic and high-energy exploration of machine mysticism. This future-facing, post-industrial ritual blurs the lines between human and robotic, spiritual and synthetic, promising a truly unique and immersive experience.
Adding to the company's significant presence at the Biennale, Antony Hamilton will also lead a workshop during the festival. He will be sharing his acclaimed choreographic methodology with advanced dancers and creatives from around the globe, further cementing Australia's contribution to the international dance landscape.
The success of U>N>I>T>E>D won't stop in Venice. The work is also scheduled to travel to Singapore and Taiwan later this year, continuing its international tour and showcasing Australian innovation in contemporary dance to diverse audiences across Asia.
This tour represents a fantastic opportunity for Chunky Move to showcase the innovative spirit of Australian contemporary dance to the world. We look forward to following their journey!