Somerset arts organisation heads to Africa and America

24 Apr 2015 01:25 PM

This April Arts Council England'sNational portfolio organisationState of Emergency embark on an international project that will see them travel to Johannesburg and Los Angeles for periods of research and development culminating in a spectacular dance theatre show to tour in 2016.

Where Is Home? is a collaboration between artists and organisations from the UK, South Africa, and the USA that explores the ancient but current and universal themes of migration and journey. The project encompasses dance, choreography, live music and digital technology and will showcase great music and dance from South Africa interfused with urban culture from London and LA.

Phase one of the research and development (R&D) begins in Johannesburg on 28 April.  UK based choreographers Vicki Igbokwe and Alesandra Seutin will work with South African choreographer David Matamela, Grammy Award winning composer Wouter Kellerman and six dancers in a week of skill-sharing to develop a live performance and recorded soundtrack.

In May the second R&D phase will take place in London working with another six dancers and musicians, including Alan Weekes and Kenrick Rowe from the original pioneering Jazz Warriors band.

State of Emergency will take their learning from both Johannesburg and London to Los Angeles in June where a three week summer school forms the third phase of R&D. Working in partnership with CalArts University, State of Emergency will share the dance, music and song developed so far with young people from downtown LA, resulting in a special performance on 11 July at the University.

The story behind Where Is Home? was inspired by the Brazilian lyricist and novelist Paulo Coelho'sThe Alchemist which discusses the 'journey' as necessary in self-discovery and explores people's sense of belonging. 

Alesandra Seutin, Choreographer, says: 'We are all in this project for the same reason. We decided to create Where Is Home? because of that question, that challenge, that understanding - one who loses himself, but finds himself again. I think somehow, we have all probably been through this same journey. I think it's something that can relate to a lot of audiences.'

US film maker Kathryn Brillhart and renowned British Cameraman Danny Spencer will create an interactive film piece documenting the progress of the artistic creation to accompany the project.

Where Is Home? builds on State of Emergency's international development programme which has so far involved performances in Canada, Germany and South Africa and choreographic work in Brazil.

Phil Gibby, Area Director, South West, Arts Council England says: 'This is a really exciting project that will see State of Emergency develop their creative, international connections; provide meaningful and educational experiences for young people across the globe; and really speak to a broad range of people through the resultant thought-provoking performances. We are pleased to be supporting State of Emergency through our National portfolio and look forward to seeing how their style continues to develop through this adventurous project.' 

The full professional show Where Is Home? will be developed in the spring of 2016 ready for a tour in the UK and a potential international tour.