Dancenorth’s artistic director, Raewyn Hill has collaborated with Opera Queensland’s artistic director Lindy Hume and classical accordionist James Crabb to create a new work entitled Abandon. Nina Levy caught up with Raewyn Hill to find out about Dancenorth’s involvement in this innovative project.
“Abandon began when Dancenorth and Opera Queensland worked together on a regional outreach program last year,” explains Hill. “We had initial conversations about developing an ongoing relationship between the companies. When Lindy came to Townsville we started talking through concepts for the creation of a new work. Abandon has been in development for about a year now.”
A synthesis of Baroque music and contemporary performance, the 90 minute production will feature four Opera Queensland singers, five Dancenorth dancers and two musicians. “We work with Handel’s arias, written more than 300 years ago, and present them in a contemporary structure and environment,” says Hill.
Not only does Abandon involve artists from a variety of disciplines but it also takes inspiration from animated 3D sequences. “My dancers and I have been working together for a while now. While all our work carries a certain aesthetic, we are conscious of finding ways that we can continue to develop movement material that ensures each piece is unique,” says Hill. “We discovered the ‘Human Weapon’, which is 3D, animated fight sequences. We began experimenting with the material and this lead to us developing our own ‘Human Weapon’ formula. It suits the Dancenorth dancers actually, they are extremely technical and fit, and so I think the’ technique’ resonates with them.”
And what can audiences expect from Abandon?
“We all come with our own stories, our own intricately woven fabric of life. We have tried to focus on what connects us, rather then what separates us; there is a lot of trust in the room as we find a way to communicate through three art forms, “ replies Hill. “Lindy and James are extraordinary directors and between the three of us I think we have managed to create a real sense of spontaneity, joy and individuality in the performers and the work. There are moments that the voice and the music cut straight through you and I have to pinch myself! I am so thankful for the opportunity to spend this time with five phenomenal dancers, 4 magical singers and 2 extraordinary musicians. This work is a real celebration of life, love and community.”
Abandon opens Tuesday 24 July at the School of Arts Theatre, Townsville.
More info: www.dancenorth.com.au
Abandon in rehearsal. Photo: Stephanie Do Rozario