Melbourne contemporary tap company Studio Stocks will return to the stage in October with an encore season of Melancholia, a work exploring grief, chronic pain, mental health, resilience and hope.
Created by internationally recognised tap artist, choreographer and former Australian Ballet dancer Garry Stocks, the production features an ensemble of leading Australian tap artists alongside guest performer Jade Wood, a former Senior Artist with The Australian Ballet.
Stocks and Wood perform a pas de deux that brings contemporary tap and classical movement into conversation, examining the relationship between rhythm, movement and emotional expression.
Performed on a custom-built amplified stage, Melancholia combines intricate percussive footwork with contemporary movement, theatrical lighting and an immersive soundscape. The dancers operate as both performers and musicians, with the sounds produced by their bodies and feet forming an integral part of the work.
The return season follows the production’s premiere, which received standing ovations and was described by Dancers Choice as “a triumphant and breathtaking fusion of rhythm, movement and emotion.”
For Stocks, the work emerged from his own experiences following a decade-long career with The Australian Ballet. As chronic pain altered his relationship with movement, he began using rhythm and choreography to process the emotional challenges that accompanied it.
“Melancholia began as an exploration of emotions that are often difficult to express in words,” Stocks said.
“Through rhythm and movement, I wanted to create a work that acknowledges grief, vulnerability and resilience, while challenging audiences’ perceptions of what tap dance can communicate.”
While tap is frequently associated with musical theatre and entertainment, Melancholia approaches rhythm as an emotional and dramatic language. Its fusion of styles reflects Studio Stocks’ broader aim to expand the possibilities of tap and establish a stronger professional platform for Australian artists working within the form.
Founded by Stocks, Studio Stocks is one of Australia’s few professional contemporary tap companies dedicated to developing original theatrical works. The company seeks to challenge conventional ideas about tap while creating professional performance opportunities for Australian tap dancers.
The cast includes Alyssa Foenander, Tiarna Leigh, Paige Pote, Bill Simpson, Garry Stocks, Claire Stubs, Lucas Thomson, Jayden Watson and Jade Wood.
Melancholia will be presented for three performances at Chapel Off Chapel in Prahran from October 1 to 3.