JV2 2023-24

A Triple Bill by Alexandros Stavropoulos, Kay Crook & Jasmin Vardimon MBE.

16 talented, young, international dancers from JV2 will premiere exciting new works by choreographers Alexandros Stavropoulos & Kay Crook (Chhaya Collective). The triple bill culminates with ‘Tomorrow’ choreographed by multi-award-winning Jasmin Vardimon MBE.

The triple bill will culminate with Tomorrow, first created in 2013. As one of JV2’s signature works – choreographed by multi-award-winning, Jasmin Vardimon, Tomorrow celebrates favourite moments from Park, Justitia, 7734 and Yesterday, and has been transformed into a vibrant and powerful explosion of exceptional talent especially for JV2.

Sweet Disposition by Alexandros Stavropoulos

Step into the world of minimalistic choreography with Alexandros Stavropoulos as he reimagines the essence of womanhood. Liberating the female characters from traditional narratives, Stavropoulos places her in the rhythmic embrace of Steve Reich’s score Clapping. Within the surreal setting of a doll factory, accompanied by an ensemble of 16 dancers donned in doll-like attire and crowned with wigs, the choreography unfolds in patterns inspired by animated films. Stavropoulos breathes life into the movement with a witty and captivating dance, drawing inspiration from the subtle yet powerful language of female gestures. This unique choreographic choice creates an experience that ignites the senses and elevates the joy of listening to music. The costumes, influenced by aesthetic kitsch and pop, add an extra layer of visual delight to this enchanting choreographic exploration.

PENELOPE by Kay Crook (Chhaya Collective)

Inspired by Homer’s Odyssey and Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad, we step into the world of Penelope; highlighted as the most ‘faithful of wives’, fighting off 108 suitors across 20 years while awaiting Odysseus’ return. In a society that views women as nothing more than a vessel for either wealth or children, the Suitors see Penelope only for her status and material possessions, but Penelope weaves her plot as skilfully as she weaves a garment;

I was the daughter of a Naiad. Behave like water, I told myself. Don’t try to oppose them. When they try to grasp you, slip through their fingers. Flow around them. Water does not resist. Water flows. When you plunge your hand into it, all you feel is a caress. Water is not a solid wall, it will not stop you. But water always goes where it wants to go, and nothing in the end can stand against it. Water is patient. Dripping water wears away a stone. Remember you are half water. If you can’t go through an obstacle, go around it. Water does. – Margaret Atwood, The Penelopiad (2005).