Shadows: Collaboration by Terry Smith and Randolph Matthews merges personal histories with Kafka and Shelley's influence, diverse materials, and site-specific elements for an immersive multidisciplinary performance.
En "Sombras: Colaboración" de Terry Smith y Randolph Matthews, se desarrolla una exploración de influencias diversas, ofreciendo un viaje inmersivo que fusiona magistralmente varias formas de arte. La convergencia de estos elementos establece una atmósfera cautivadora, atrapando a los espectadores y posicionando este esfuerzo conjunto como una empresa artística destacada y perdurable.
The Chair is a poignant solo performance that delves into the complex emotions of loss, memory, and acceptance. Created by writer and director Terry Smith in collaboration with performer Lise Boucon, this carefully choreographed production unfolds without the use of words or music, relying solely on movement and expression to convey a profound narrative.
As the audience enters the theatre, their attention is drawn to a solitary empty chair placed on the stage, facing them expectantly. A performer emerges from the back of the stage and approaches the chair, standing by its side. What ensues is a series of repetitive motions and gestures that hint at the presence of an unseen figure, evoking emotions ranging from joy and nostalgia to frustration and sorrow.
Through a gradual progression of movements, the performer navigates a journey of recollection and reflection, ultimately reaching a powerful realisation: the revelation of a suicide and an irreversible loss. This climactic moment confronts both the performer and the audience with the harsh truth that some wounds cannot be healed and some absences cannot be filled.A captivating solo performance delves into the complexities of loss and acceptance, skillfully portrayed through poignant movements and emotive expressions centered around a solitary chair. This powerful narrative traverses through a spectrum of emotions, culminating in a deeply profound exploration of themes surrounding suicide and the profound impact of irreversible loss.
The captivating play Foundlings was most recently staged back in 2014 at Ca’ Pesaro Museo Internationale d’art Moderna in Venice, where it showcased a unique collaboration with a myriad of talented artists. Delving deep into obscure and forgotten motifs, the production paid tribute to the influences of Hogarth, Handel, and Vivaldi. This ambitious project successfully brought together a harmonious blend of musicians, composers, sound designers, writers, and cinematographers. By embracing an open and inclusive creative process, the team effectively integrated a wide range of skills and diverse concepts into the fabric of the performance.
Mirror Mirror: Innovative performance blending theater, dance, and art explores isolation. Performers delve into daily routines, stillness, internal contemplation, and chance encounters. Movements synchronized with music, industrial sounds, and disruptions convey introspective moments on isolation.
Mirror 2 Mirror is a live performance exploring themes of isolation, repetition, and routine, all reflective of the human condition. In this piece, performers never interact physically or make eye contact, instead engaging in minimal routines akin to ghosts coexisting in the same space but from different realms. The work delves into the impact of covid-induced isolation on individuals.
Set to the captivating sound of John Cage's Two6 and complemented by other audio works, the performance is influenced by artistic giants such as Pina Bausch, Merce Cunningham, and Yvonne Rainer. The movement also echoes the styles of Station House Opera, Theatre of Mistakes, Gary Stevens, Kenneth McMillian, and Trisha Brown.
Led by performers Lise Boucon, Sarah April Lamb, and Randolph Matthews, with Paola Piccato serving as associate choreographer, Mirror 2 Mirror promises a mesmerising exploration of human connection amidst the shadows of detachment and routine.
"Mirror 2 Mirror" delves into isolation, repeating tasks alone without engaging with others or making eye contact. It reflects the complexity of human experiences shaped by the isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic. The show includes simple, repetitive actions performed to John Cage's "Two6" and other music. The performance draws inspiration from artists like Pina Bausch, Cunningham, and Rainer. The choreography is influenced by Station House Opera, Theatre of Mistakes, Gary Stevens, McMillian, Trisha Brown. The cast features Boucon, Lamb, and Matthews, with Piccato as the choreographer. The production explores how people connect with each other while feeling detached.
The majestic mountains surrounded by lush greenery present a picturesque scene, inviting nature enthusiasts to explore its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil surroundings. The crisp morning air fills the lungs as hikers embark on a journey filled with awe-inspiring vistas and peaceful serenity. The rustling leaves and chirping birds create a symphony of sounds that perfectly complements the stunning visuals of towering peaks and meandering rivers. Each step along the winding trails brings a sense of connection to the natural world, reminding all who visit of the beauty and majesty of the great outdoors.
Mirror 2 Mirror
Mirror 2 Mirror is a live performance exploring themes of isolation, repetition, and routine, all reflective of the human condition. In this piece, performers never interact physically or make eye contact, instead engaging in minimal routines akin to ghosts coexisting in the same space but from different realms. The work delves into the impact of covid-induced isolation on individuals.
Set to the captivating sound of John Cage's Two6 and complemented by other audio works, the performance is influenced by artistic giants such as Pina Bausch, Merce Cunningham, and Yvonne Rainer. The movement also echoes the styles of Station House Opera, Theatre of Mistakes, Gary Stevens, Kenneth McMillian, and Trisha Brown.
Led by performers Lise Boucon, Sarah April Lamb, and Randolph Matthews, with Paola Piccato serving as associate choreographer, Mirror 2 Mirror promises a mesmerising exploration of human connection amidst the shadows of detachment and routine.
Mirror Mirror is a blend of theatre, dance, and performance art, interwoven with music by John Cage and an interrupted element industrial sound. The central theme of isolation is explored through a series of performance-based actions, the performers intricately construct a narrative that unfolds in five sequences. These sequences echo daily routines, actions, and moments of contemplative stillness, offering a poignant exploration of the central concern at hand.
The performance transitions between internal and external realms of imagined spaces. While the participants maintain an aura of isolation and distance throughout, the exterior sequences introduce encounters with others, introducing a new layer of improvised actions and dynamics.
Guided by the score, the performers take cues from the music, a pivotal moment arises with a twenty-minute interruption featuring a collage of recorded industrial sounds, disrupting the established rhythm. Additionally, a three-minute unrehearsed intervention by a wandering photographer adds another layer of intrigue as they document the unfolding performance from within.
Mirror Mirror challenges conventional boundaries and perceptions, inviting audiences to delve into a multi-dimensional exploration of isolation through the captivating medium of performance dance.
"Shadows" is a mesmerizing and distinctive performance art collaboration showcasing the creative talents of Terry Smith and Randolph Matthews. Through an intricate fusion of their diverse artistic influences and life experiences, they masterfully construct a compelling narrative that explores individual anecdotes and broader social concepts in a unique manner. Drawing inspiration from a multitude of sources, ranging from esteemed literature to the ambient noise of everyday life, the duo expertly intertwines a rich tapestry of emotions and reflections. Utilizing site-specific elements thoughtfully incorporated into their meticulously designed production, they seamlessly blend performance art, dance, and theatrical expression. At the heart of the show stands a solitary figure on stage, offering a compelling and immersive experience through engaging interactions with the audience, catalyzing deep contemplation and stimulating discussions with their profoundly thought-provoking storytelling.
The most recent version Foundlings was performed in 2014 at the Ca’ Pesaro Museo Internationale d’art Moderna in Venice. A collaboration with Marita Isobel Solberg, Georgio de Battisti, Mauro Sambo, Micaela Leanardi and Samanta Cinquini as part of the Venice Performance Festival.
The foundling plays with ideas of the hidden and the lost. In a sense part homage to Hograth, Handel and Vivaldi who all made active contributions to institutions in London and Venice respectively, dedicated to giving vulnerable and destitute children a second chance at life.
The Foundling is a collaborative project bringing together musicians, composers, sound designers and writers and cinematographers. Smith’s approach to these projects is an open collaborative process. Discussions, workshops, rehearsals and performances have enabled him to construct a work that is informed and determined by the different skills and ideas of the individuals involved. The Foundling is a unique meeting of different art forms.
The most recent version of Foundlings was performed in 2014 at the Ca’ Pesaro Museo Internationale d’art Moderna in Venice. This collaboration featured Marita Isobel Solberg, Georgio de Battisti, Mauro Sambo, Micaela Leanardi, and Samanta Cinquini as part of the Venice Performance Festival.
Reflecting on the concept of the hidden and the lost, Foundlings pays tribute to Hogarth, Handel, and Vivaldi. These renowned figures played pivotal roles in establishing institutions in London and Venice, dedicated to offering vulnerable and destitute children a fresh start.
As a collaborative endeavour, The Foundling unites musicians, composers, sound designers, writers, and cinematographers. Smith's inclusive approach fosters a cooperative environment where ideas converge. Through discussions, workshops, rehearsals, and performances, a unique fusion of diverse artistic expressions emerges. The Foundling stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in the realm of art.
A Collaborative Project Uniting Performers and Audience
Crafted as a fusion of art and experience, Combine is a site-specific performance project engaging both performers and observers in a unique creative evolution. Commissioned by Dartington International Summer School and V22 in London back in 2012, the work draws inspiration from the distinct styles of artist Robert Rauschenberg and choreographer Merce Cunningham, punctuated by the creator's own history in site-specific interventions.
Having embarked on a journey of collaboration since 2007, initially through the captivating narrative of Broken Voices showcased at esteemed venues in London, Liverpool, and the Venice Biennial, followed by The Foundling exhibited at the Foundling Museum, Venice, and the ICA in London, the artist now pens Combine as a transformative blend of music and movement.
Envisioned as a bespoke creation tailored for each unique performance space, Combine harmoniously weaves together the talents of seasoned professionals and aspiring novices, merging diverse styles and abilities into a tapestry of artistic expression. Embrace the essence of synergy as Combine transcends boundaries, inviting all to partake in the magic of collaborative creation.