Theatre and dance projects
"I’m not trying to seduce people into feeling something; I’m trying to invite them to experience it."
P.Bausch
“DIDO AND AENEAS”
"Dido and Aeneas" breathes new life into the classic narrative of Virgil's epic Aeneid through the poignant musical composition by Henry Purcell. This masterpiece, Purcell's sole opera, narrates the heart-wrenching love story that unfolds between the regal Queen of Carthage, Dido, and the valiant Trojan warrior, Aeneas.
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"Dido and Aeneas" breathes new life into the classic narrative of Virgil's epic Aeneid through the poignant musical composition by Henry Purcell. This masterpiece, Purcell's sole opera, narrates the heart-wrenching love story that unfolds between the regal Queen of Carthage, Dido, and the valiant Trojan warrior, Aeneas. Set against a backdrop of epic proportions, this performance skillfully intertwines dance and music to capture the essence of this tragic love affair. In a departure from the traditional operatic norms of the time, the chorus takes on an unusually prominent role, lending a unique and enchanting dimension to the story. It's as if this piece was tailor-made for the local motet choir, where the harmonious blend of voices adds depth and resonance to the emotional tapestry. The chorus not only contributed their voices but also engaged in movements that reinforced the themes sung about and amplified the atmosphere of each scene.
Under the masterful musical direction of Joss Reincke, this production not only adheres to the essence of the original narrative but also infuses it with a contemporary and innovative spirit. The artistic concept and choreography, collaboratively crafted by Janis Putnins and Luca Marie Fritsch, offer a fresh perspective on this timeless classic. One distinctive feature of this rendition lies in its contemporary form. The addition of two contemporary dance dancers, Margeris Vanags and Cosima Dudel, introduces a modern, abstract, and acrobatic dance element that seamlessly complements the traditional operatic performance. Their movements and expressions enhance the narrative, providing a visual counterpart to the melodious storytelling.
In the background, captivating projections serve as a dynamic visual backdrop, transporting the audience into the heart of the narrative. The scenography is a testament to the thoughtfulness that went into every aspect of this performance. With multiple levels and intricate design, it provides the setting for this classic tale to come to life.
“PEOPLE POWER PARTNERSHIP “
The project at its core revolves around the multifaceted concept of the mirror, a symbol rich in history and laden with diverse interpretations, including notions of self-encounter, self-knowledge, fractured identity, reflection, vanity, and much more. The mirror has been an integral part of European literature since antiquity, and its significance has evolved over time.
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The project at its core revolves around the multifaceted concept of the mirror, a symbol rich in history and laden with diverse interpretations, including notions of self-encounter, self-knowledge, fractured identity, reflection, vanity, and much more. The mirror has been an integral part of European literature since antiquity, and its significance has evolved over time.
In this digital age, where online interactions and echo chambers increasingly define our lives, we delve into the question of what happens when we shape a different world for ourselves. A world that's better, freer, and tailored to our desires. Yet, we must consider for whom this world is better, and who dictates our freedom within it. Are we the architects of our own online experience, or are we unwittingly confined to digital bubbles through tracking methods?
The term "metaverse" emerged two decades ago in Neal Stephenson's novel "Snow Crash." In 2022, the metaverse is a tangible concept, marked by the likes of Mark Zuckerberg renaming Facebook to Meta and the proliferation of virtual worlds in games like Roblox, Second Life, Fortnite, and Minecraft. However, the extent of its existence and its integration with technologies such as 5G, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and the cloud remain subjects of debate.
The metaverse promises freedom, a safer world, and profound connectivity. In an age where digital interactions have proven their potential during the pandemic, the allure of this new digital realm is evident. But as we navigate these spaces, are we truly in control of our interactions, or are we guided by tracking methods and algorithms?
The project tackles three central themes: Hubris, Social Coercion, and Escapism. It explores the consequences of entering the metaverse with different motivations, confronting a blend of familiar and new experiences. The decisions made within this digital realm, influenced by emotions and human nature, shape the outcome, with some choosing to remain while others opt to return to the analogue world.
The project is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, as it invites participants to explore the metaverse through dance, music, and projection, questioning the boundaries between the digital and analogue worlds and celebrating the freedom to decide one's own path.
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Directors: Sigrun Fritsch, Luka Marie Fritsch
Directors assistant: Cosima Dudel
Choreographers:Kien Trinh, Jānis Putniņš
Technical Support: Dani Vera, Sönke Ober, Dirk Ober, Laurenz Fritsch
Music: Tobias Schwab
Costume: Hilke vom Verra
Stage: Llorenç Corbella
Light - Laurenz Fritsch, Steffen Melch
Vide maintance - Leonie Fritsch, Janis Putnins
Technical director : Aaron Güthlin
Project Leader: Matthias Rettner, Aktionstheater PAN.OPTIKUM
Project leader assistant : Adelė Ryliškytė
“LIDZINIEKI”
LIDZINIEKI is an ambitious and immersive large-scale site-specific theatre and dance project that takes place within the rich tapestry of a historical building, spanning across all of its floors. This groundbreaking experience is ingeniously designed as a time machine, inviting the audience to journey back in time and participate in an evening that could change the course of Latvia's history.
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LIDZINIEKI is an ambitious and immersive large-scale site-specific theatre and dance project that takes place within the rich tapestry of a historical building, spanning across all of its floors. This groundbreaking experience is ingeniously designed as a time machine, inviting the audience to journey back in time and participate in an evening that could change the course of Latvia's history.
The project unfolds in a series of distinct scenarios, where participants have the unique opportunity to interact with prominent Latvian politicians and poets from the past. This engagement allows them to gain firsthand knowledge and insights into historical events and facts while navigating a thrilling narrative that involves encounters with secret police, puzzle-solving tasks, and daring escape sequences.
Throughout the experience, communication and teamwork become essential as participants collaborate to bypass guards, find hidden clues, and unlock the mysteries that surround them. The project's dynamic nature ensures that every decision made has a profound impact on the unfolding storyline.
The project is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the creative team, with a script, break-out game, and visitor experience that reflects their combined expertise. The result is a seamless fusion of theatre, dance, and interactive gaming elements, creating a unique and unforgettable journey through time and history.
“IMPRINT”
The concept behind "Imprint" delves into the intricate interplay between the imprints we absorb from our surroundings and how we, in turn, leave our mark on the world. This thought-provoking exploration revolves around the idea that our experiences, interactions, and the influences we encounter become imprinted upon us, shaping our perspectives, actions, and the way we engage with the world.
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The concept behind "Imprint" delves into the intricate interplay between the imprints we absorb from our surroundings and how we, in turn, leave our mark on the world. This thought-provoking exploration revolves around the idea that our experiences, interactions, and the influences we encounter become imprinted upon us, shaping our perspectives, actions, and the way we engage with the world.
The performance artfully illustrates how these imprints can either operate at a subconscious level, guiding our responses and behaviors without conscious thought, or, conversely, result from deliberate choices we make as we navigate life's intricate pathways. In essence, "Imprint" captures the dynamic between passive reception and active transformation of these imprints.
At its core, the performance uses the language of dance to convey this complex and often overlooked phenomenon. Dancers become the vessels through which this narrative unfolds, embodying the intricate dance of influence and response. They physically trace their own footprints, highlighting the path of influence and impact in their lives.
The key question posed by "Imprint" is one of agency and self-awareness: In the midst of this ongoing exchange of imprints, we, as individuals, possess the power to choose how we respond, how we transform these imprints, and ultimately, what we contribute back to the world. The performance acts as a reflection of the human experience, emphasizing the importance of conscious decision-making and the potential for change.
In a world where we are in a constant state of receiving and giving, "Imprint" serves as a poignant reminder that we exist within a web of interconnected experiences. It challenges us to recognize our role as active participants in this ongoing dance of influence, encouraging us to ask ourselves: What do we wish to leave behind as our legacy? What choices will we make to transform our imprints, leading to a different and more intentional outcome? Through the medium of dance, "Imprint" captures the profound significance of this ongoing human narrative and invites us to contemplate the indelible marks we leave on the canvas of existence.
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Choreographers: Luka Marie Fritsch & Jānis Putninš
Composer: Kaspars Niklasons
Producer: Patrīcija Kolāte, Latvian Academy of Culture
Dancers: Rūdis Vilsons, Lauris Limbergs, Mārīte Supe, Polina Filippova, Sintija Skrabe, Anna Marija Puke, Artūrs Nīgalis, Imants Ilgazs, Mārtinš Emīls Arzanovskis, Anastasija Čornaja, Dita Andersone, Lelde Beāte
Pictures by Sandis Lazda
“HOUSE OF BRAND’S “
Inspired by the poetic masterpiece of Henrik Ibsen, "Brands," this project explores the complex themes of inner will, faith, and defiance of societal norms. The narrative revolves around a central character who possesses a profound inner drive and a steadfast belief in their convictions, challenging the status quo and defying conventional societal expectations.
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Inspired by the poetic masterpiece of Henrik Ibsen, "Brands," this project explores the complex themes of inner will, faith, and defiance of societal norms. The narrative revolves around a central character who possesses a profound inner drive and a steadfast belief in their convictions, challenging the status quo and defying conventional societal expectations.
Project is a seamless fusion of contemporary dance, immersive installation, and cinematic storytelling. This unique blend of artistic expressions creates an immersive and thought-provoking experience for the audience. The project effectively bridges the gap between live performance and visual art, providing viewers with a multifaceted journey into the depths of human determination and resilience.
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Project is directed by Edgars Niklasons, and brings together a talented team of creative professionals, including choreographer and performer Janis Putnins, video artist Aigars Larionovs, and producer "INITIUM." The project also features a special guest appearance by Evija Vebere, adding a unique and distinctive element to the production.
“MeMories OF FUTURE PAST “
"Memories of Future Past" is a captivating dance theatre performance that unfolded within the historic Daugavpils Fortress, serving as a canvas for an international exploration of the concept of time. This interdisciplinary production took the audience on a journey from the recollections of the past, through the present, and into the future. Its artistic essence ingeniously melded contemporary dance and hip-hop, amplified by dynamic scenography featuring large-format projections and mirrors.
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Choreographer, Dramaturgy Consultant
"Memories of Future Past" is a captivating dance theatre performance that unfolded within the historic Daugavpils Fortress, serving as a canvas for an international exploration of the concept of time. This interdisciplinary production took the audience on a journey from the recollections of the past, through the present, and into the future. Its artistic essence ingeniously melded contemporary dance and hip-hop, amplified by dynamic scenography featuring large-format projections and mirrors.
The "People Power Partnership" Project: This performance played a role in the broader initiative called "People Power Partnership," a transnational endeavor spanning 11 European countries. For this project, the creative team brought together 16 talented young dancers from Latvia and Portugal, each possessing a unique movement background. Under the guidance of German director Sigrun Fritsch and Latvian choreographer Jānis Putniņš, they worked collaboratively to explore the performance's central theme, crafting choreography and filming projections. These projections were not only central to this production but also intended for use in future performances within the project.
"Memories of Future Past" is a thought-provoking, multilayered exploration of time and human existence, where dance, language, and audiovisual elements merge to convey profound philosophical questions. Jānis Putniņš's contributions as choreographer and dramaturgy consultant added depth to this international production, reflecting his strengths in choreography, leadership, and fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
“SACRE I & II “
"SACRE" stands as a collaborative endeavor between Aktionstheater PAN.OPTIKUM and the University of Music Freiburg, exemplifying the dynamic fusion of art, dance, and music. This captivating interdisciplinary dance performance is divided into two distinct but interconnected parts, both of which delve into the profound themes of ritual and sacrifice. At its heart, "SACRE" poses an intriguing and reflective query: What sacrifices are we willing to make, and how many sacrifices do we make unknowingly in our daily lives?
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"SACRE" stands as a collaborative endeavor between Aktionstheater PAN.OPTIKUM and the University of Music Freiburg, exemplifying the dynamic fusion of art, dance, and music. This captivating interdisciplinary dance performance is divided into two distinct but interconnected parts, both of which delve into the profound themes of ritual and sacrifice. At its heart, "SACRE" poses an intriguing and reflective query: What sacrifices are we willing to make, and how many sacrifices do we make unknowingly in our daily lives?
Sacre IThe first part of the "SACRE" dance performance artfully blends the compositions of Freiburg's own Tobias Schwab with the evocative writings of Berlin author Viktoria Hohmann. These elements combine seamlessly with the captivating video art crafted by Jennifer Rohrbacher, creating a multidimensional sensory experience that challenges the boundaries of artistic expression and audience engagement.
SACRE II
In the second part of "SACRE," the spotlight shifts to dance, with a captivating performance that centers around Igor Stravinsky's iconic masterpiece, "Le Sacre du printemps." Accompanying the choreography is the enchanting orchestration provided by the talented musicians of the Freiburg University of Music, under the masterful direction of Scott Sandmeier. This segment is a celebration of dance, music, and the profound emotional resonance of Stravinsky's work.
CREATIVE TEAM
Artistic Direction: Sigrun Fritsch, Luka Marie Fritsch
Sigrun Fritsch and Luka Marie Fritsch lead the artistic direction of "SACRE," infusing the project with their creative vision and guiding the multidisciplinary collaboration that defines the performance.
Music Direction: Scott Sandmeier
The choreography of "SACRE" is crafted by a team of choreographers, including Jānis Putniņš, Luka Marie Fritsch, and Carina Russo.
Dancers: Cosima Dudel, Elizabet Ivanova, Bernice Waldvogel, Junis Becherer, Yalany Marschner, Marie Schreiber, Marģers Vanags, Christophe Kerbourch, Arūnas Mozūraitis, Clara Giambino, Laurenz Fritsch, Abiba Sokoto, Bartek Gawęcki
The musical accompaniment is delivered by the musicians of the Musikhochschule Freiburg, contributing to the captivating auditory experience of the performance.
Leonie Fritsch provides dramatic accompaniment, enhancing the narrative elements of "SACRE."
The music of "SACRE" is composed by Tobias Schwab and features Igor Stravinsky's iconic compositions, creating a rich and dynamic musical backdrop.
Victoria Hohmann's evocative text elements add depth and meaning to the performance, weaving words into the artistic tapestry of "SACRE."
Sönke Ober is responsible for the stage design, creating the visual environment in which the performance unfolds.
Jennifer Rohrbacher's video art enhances the visual dimension of "SACRE," adding an immersive layer to the artistic experience.
Aaron Güthlin the lighting design, illuminating the stage and dancers to create the desired mood and atmosphere.
Julia Weuffen oversees the sound elements of the performance, ensuring the audio quality meets the highest standards.
Pierre-Yves Dalka is the creative force behind the costume design, shaping the visual identity of the performers.
Christof Burger manages the technical aspects of the production.
The project management team, led by Matthias Rettner from Aktionstheater PAN.OPTIKUM and Hans Jörg Mammel from Musikhochschule Freiburg, oversees the coordination and execution of "SACRE."
“Boilerpaw “
In the enchanting tale of "Boilerpaw," we are introduced to a mysterious character, Harry Katliņš, whose choice of headgear has left the town's children bewildered. He dons a pot on his head, and this peculiar choice invites ridicule and harassment from the local youngsters, who call him "Boilerpaw" and pelt him with stones. The questions linger - why does he wear this unusual aluminum headdress, and what motivates the taunting?
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In the enchanting tale of "Boilerpaw," we are introduced to a mysterious character, Harry Katliņš, whose choice of headgear has left the town's children bewildered. He dons a pot on his head, and this peculiar choice invites ridicule and harassment from the local youngsters, who call him "Boilerpaw" and pelt him with stones. The questions linger - why does he wear this unusual aluminum headdress, and what motivates the taunting?
As the story unfolds, we encounter a trio of local delvers - Rat, Pigeon, and Green Crow - who hatch a plan to break into Catspaw's home to seize his most prized possession, the saucepan. The reasoning behind their actions is shrouded in mystery. Is it a cruel act against a seemingly vulnerable man, or is there more to Catspaw's story than meets the eye?
"Boilerpaw" is a narrative that explores the depths of understanding and empathy. It delves into the human inclination to judge and label others based on appearances or peculiarities. The narrative invites reflection on the choices we make to protect ourselves from a world that can often be harsh and unkind.
Central to the story are themes of empathy, friendship, and the transformative power of trust. As misunderstandings unravel, Catspaw's life takes an unexpected turn, leading to new connections and friendships. The tale encourages us to consider the value of empathy - the ability to see beyond surface judgments and to connect with the unique experiences and vulnerabilities of others.
As we journey through "Boilerpaw," we are prompted to contemplate the meaning of empathy and how it can serve as a bridge to forge meaningful relationships. The story challenges us to confront our own prejudices and biases, urging us to extend kindness and trust to our fellow human beings.
Ultimately, "Boilerpaw" is a heartfelt narrative that underscores the significance of letting go of our self-imposed 'pots' or barriers, and embracing the potential for authentic connections with others. It's a reminder that empathy and friendship have the power to transform lives and bridge the gaps that may separate us.
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Director:Edgars NiklasonsCostume designer :Edgars Niklasons
Set and puppet designer:Evita Bēta
Music by:Kaspars Niklasons
Lighting designer:Uldis Andersons
Movement consultant:Jānis Putniņš
ROLES
Dace Vītola
Miķelis Žideļūns
Matīss Millers
Rihards Zelezņevs
“STEP “
In a truly distinctive and transformative creative process, participants are beckoned to embark on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery. Drawing deep wellsprings of inspiration from the profound philosophy of the legendary Carl Gustav Jung, this captivating artistic endeavor extends an open invitation to individuals, urging them to undertake a profound exploration.
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In a truly distinctive and transformative creative process, participants are beckoned to embark on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery. Drawing deep wellsprings of inspiration from the profound philosophy of the legendary Carl Gustav Jung, this captivating artistic endeavor extends an open invitation to individuals, urging them to undertake a profound exploration. It prompts them to unravel the enigmatic impact of their past experiences and the environment that has intricately molded their beings.
Producer Group INITIUM: This transformative performance is brought to life by the ingenious hands of the INITIUM producer group, dedicated to crafting exceptional and thought-provoking artistic experiences.
Music by Andris Jeziks: The melodious backdrop is meticulously orchestrated by the talented composer Andris Jeziks, whose music harmonizes seamlessly with the performance's philosophical narrative.
Dramaturgy by Luke Welch: The show benefits from the rich dramaturgical insights of Luke Welch, enhancing its depth and resonance, and ensuring that it resonates profoundly with the audience.
Choreography by Janis Putnins: The choreography, a dynamic and integral aspect of the performance, is brought to life by the expert touch of Janis Putnins, whose creative direction breathes life into the narrative.
Talented Dancers: The performance is elevated to grandeur by a brilliant cast of dancers, including Ksenija Simanova, Marija Saveiko, Arturs Kigali's, Gints Dancitis, and Sabine Neilande, whose skills and passion ignite the stage.
In essence, "The Jungian Odyssey: An Artistic Voyage into Self-Discovery" extends a personal invitation to individuals to explore the intricate and transformative landscapes of their own existence, guided by the brilliance of Carl Gustav Jung's philosophy. This artistic spectacle is not merely a performance but a profound journey of the soul, awakening introspection and self-discovery, a tribute to the boundless capacities of the human spirit and psyche.
“5 minutes of money “
"Five Minutes Money" is a compelling site-specific contemporary dance performance that forms part of the broader series of urban events and performances titled "Money Flies, Money Burns," a collaborative effort by the theater company KVADRIFRONS and the INITIUM Foundation. This innovative project aimed to explore the complex relationship between Latvian society, art, and money, delving into different facets of this intriguing connection.
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Choreographer
"Five Minutes Money" is a compelling site-specific contemporary dance performance that forms part of the broader series of urban events and performances titled "Money Flies, Money Burns," a collaborative effort by the theater company KVADRIFRONS and the INITIUM Foundation. This innovative project aimed to explore the complex relationship between Latvian society, art, and money, delving into different facets of this intriguing connection.
Social Research through Dance: The performance involved a team of five highly skilled contemporary dance professionals who executed numerous dance sequences, each with its own costumes and musical accompaniment. Simultaneously, a social research component was incorporated, where the audience was engaged in discussions related to the costs of the performance. This unique blend of dance and audience interaction aimed to probe the dynamics of the relationship between art and finances within the context of Latvian nationality.
Art as a Tool for Investigation: "Five Minutes Money" is an artistic endeavor that transcends the boundaries of traditional art forms, using choreography and dance as a medium for in-depth exploration and social inquiry. The project challenged preconceived notions of how art can be used to dissect complex societal issues.
Urban Art Series: The performance was part of a larger series of urban events that spanned several months, bringing art to the public spaces of Riga and various locations throughout Latvia. Each of these events, including "Five Minutes Money," delved into distinct aspects of the interplay between money and the arts.
"Five Minutes Money" represents a thought-provoking blend of contemporary dance, social research, and public engagement, allowing audiences to explore the intriguing relationship between art and money within the context of Latvian society. Jānis Putniņš' contribution as a choreographer adds a layer of artistic depth to this multifaceted project. It exemplifies his skills in dance, problem-solving, and creative adaptation in the realm of site-specific contemporary dance performances.
“3D About phones “
"3D ABOUT PHONES" is a captivating physical theatre and dance performance that offers a humorous take on our complex relationship with modern technology, specifically smartphones. Conceived by the visionary Olga Zitluhina, this performance transcends the traditional boundaries of theatre and dance, bringing a unique blend of comedy, contemporary dance, and physical theatre to audiences.
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Performer, Co-Creator
"3D ABOUT PHONES" is a captivating physical theatre and dance performance that offers a humorous take on our complex relationship with modern technology, specifically smartphones. Conceived by the visionary Olga Zitluhina, this performance transcends the traditional boundaries of theatre and dance, bringing a unique blend of comedy, contemporary dance, and physical theatre to audiences.
Live Text and Interaction with Audience: The performance not only showcases exceptional physicality but also incorporates live text and interaction with the audience, creating an engaging and immersive experience. This interaction allows viewers to become an integral part of the narrative.
Contemporary Dance and Physical Theatre: "3D ABOUT PHONES" combines the grace and expressiveness of contemporary dance with the physicality of theatre. The fusion of these art forms brings out the best of both worlds, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant performance.
Extensive Regional Tour: Over the course of its run from 2018 to 2021, "3D ABOUT PHONES" embarked on an extensive tour, reaching various cities and classrooms across Latvia. This commitment to performing in classrooms and regions highlights the production's aim of making contemporary art accessible to all. The performance was presented more than 130 times, providing countless students with a unique artistic experience.
Exploring Social Relevance: The heart of "3D ABOUT PHONES" lies in its exploration of the societal impact of technology, especially on young people. The performance delves into the comedic aspects of our interaction with phones, all while shedding light on important themes related to the influence of technology on our lives and relationships.
"3D ABOUT PHONES" is a testament to the power of art in addressing contemporary issues and making a profound impact. This production challenged societal norms and perceptions while providing entertainment and thought-provoking insights. It reflects the core of my artistic values, combining innovation, expression, community engagement, and physicality to deliver a memorable performance.
“Warharbour.Excursion“
"Warharbour.Excursion" was a captivating site-specific dance performance that took place in the historic district of Liepaja, Latvia. This immersive performance, choreographed by Jānis Putniņš, was a collaboration between the INITIUM Foundation and the Latvian Academy of Culture, featuring students from the contemporary dance art department.
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Choreographer
"Warharbour.Excursion" was a captivating site-specific dance performance that took place in the historic district of Liepaja, Latvia. This immersive performance, choreographed by Jānis Putniņš, was a collaboration between the INITIUM Foundation and the Latvian Academy of Culture, featuring students from the contemporary dance art department.
Key Highlights:
Historical Exploration: The performance unfolded in a special historical district of Liepaja, a location steeped in history and rich in stories. Each dancer embodied the essence and narratives of specific places within this district, creating a unique and immersive experience for the audience.
Audience Excursion: Spectators were treated to an engaging and informative excursion through the district. As they moved from one site to another, they encountered different performances, each intricately linked to the historical and cultural significance of the place. This interactive approach allowed the audience to explore history through the art of dance.
Cultural and Artistic Interpretation: "Warharbour.Excursion" showcased the power of dance as a medium for cultural interpretation and artistic expression. It allowed the audience to connect with the history of the district on a profound and sensory level.
“Take me home vol.2 “
The performance delves deep into the intricate and intriguing world of characters, embodying different states of mind. This includes portraying emotions such as "rave," "lost," "high," and "enraged," presenting an array of complex and challenging characters. The development of these characters required a deep understanding of psychology, body language, and the human condition.
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Physical Theatre Performance
Choreographer, Knot Theatre
"Bring Me Home Vol.2" is a mesmerizing journey into the world of physical theatre, an artistic endeavor that brought together the talents of director Edgars Niklasons, choreographer Jānis Putniņš, sound designer Evija Vēbere, and a brilliant ensemble of performers, including Anastasija Rekuta-Djordževiča, Elīna Bojarkina, Rūdolfs Apse, Malgoržata Apse, and Anete Enikova from kNOT Theatre. This captivating physical theatre performance embodies the essence of creative expression, storytelling, and innovative choreography.
Key Highlights:
Collaborative Choreography and Stage Composition: As the choreographer, my role in "Bring Me Home Vol.2" was to work closely with the director to conceptualize and create choreography and stage composition. The performance pushed the boundaries of physical theatre, requiring the seamless integration of movement, space, and narrative.
Exploration of Characters and States of Mind: The performance delves deep into the intricate and intriguing world of characters, embodying different states of mind. This includes portraying emotions such as "rave," "lost," "high," and "enraged," presenting an array of complex and challenging characters. The development of these characters required a deep understanding of psychology, body language, and the human condition.
Nonverbal Communication and Movement Score: "Bring Me Home Vol.2" relies on nonverbal communication and a carefully crafted movement score to convey its narrative. These elements added layers of depth and meaning to the performance, allowing the audience to engage on a visceral and emotional level.
Scenographical Object Choreography: An exciting aspect of this production was the choreography involving scenographical objects. The challenge was to create movement that harmonized with the objects, enhancing the visual and thematic aspects of the performance.
“Ideal fe(male)“
The performance delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring the mental crises that affect individuals of all genders in the modern era. It paints a vivid picture of a society where traditional values have eroded. Within the structured chaos meticulously crafted by the two skilled dancers, Jānis Putniņš and Eva Kronberga, the audience is taken on an emotional journey. They expertly convey the turmoil and estrangement experienced by individuals in this fast-paced, pleasure-driven world. Their performances are passionate, wild, and imbued with a sense of impending doom, exploring the complexities of human interaction, desire, and longing.
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"Ideal Female" (Excerpt) is a compelling and thought-provoking contemporary dance performance, choreographed and performed by the dynamic duo of Jānis Putniņš and Eva Kronberga.
The performance delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring the mental crises that affect individuals of all genders in the modern era. It paints a vivid picture of a society where traditional values have eroded, and deities have been replaced by the allure of retouched magazine covers, pop icons, Friday night revelry, gastronomic pleasures, Instagram, and various physical indulgences. In this chaotic world, the concept of divinity has shifted, and the pursuit of personal ideals takes on new forms.
Within the structured chaos meticulously crafted by the two skilled dancers, Jānis Putniņš and Eva Kronberga, the audience is taken on an emotional journey. They expertly convey the turmoil and estrangement experienced by individuals in this fast-paced, pleasure-driven world. Their performances are passionate, wild, and imbued with a sense of impending doom, exploring the complexities of human interaction, desire, and longing. The duets they dance challenge conventional norms and provoke the viewer, inviting them to question and reflect upon what they witness.
The choice of music and lyrics adds an additional layer of depth to the performance, enhancing the emotional resonance of the piece. The dynamic interplay of motion, space, and sound captures the audience's attention, creating a range of emotions from discomfort to fascination. The intent behind this is to elicit a sense of disgust, provoking contemplation and self-reflection.
Yet, beneath the surface of this intense and visceral experience lies a glimmer of hope. The performance suggests that by confronting and acknowledging these uncomfortable emotions and realities, individuals can cleanse their souls, find ease, and be encouraged to be truer to themselves. It's an invitation to take a small step towards one's own ideal, amidst the tumultuous backdrop of the modern world.
"Ideal Female" (Excerpt) is a mesmerizing blend of movement, emotion, and social commentary, offering a transformative experience that challenges preconceptions and sparks self-discovery. It's a powerful exploration of the human condition and our eternal quest for personal authenticity.
“Sculpture quadriennale riga “
The "Sculpture Quadriennale Riga" of 2020 marked a significant cultural event for the city, and it was opened with a spectacular street parade theatre-style performance choreographed by Jānis Putniņš. Four prominent Riga organizations, namely MMIC, the Quadrennial organizers, INITIUM Foundation, Riga Circus, and the theatre company KVADRIFRONS, came together during the White Night 2020 contemporary culture forum to stage this grand procession.
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Choreographer
The "Sculpture Quadriennale Riga" of 2020 marked a significant cultural event for the city, and it was opened with a spectacular street parade theatre-style performance choreographed by Jānis Putniņš. Four prominent Riga organizations, namely MMIC, the Quadrennial organizers, INITIUM Foundation, Riga Circus, and the theatre company KVADRIFRONS, came together during the White Night 2020 contemporary culture forum to stage this grand procession.
Key Highlights:
Quadrennial Theme - "The Wonders of Democracy": The performance celebrated the overarching theme of the 2020 Quadrennial, "The Wonders of Democracy." This theme was intricately woven into the choreography and narrative of the parade, adding depth and significance to the event.
Unification of Art Forms: The parade theatre-style performance was a magnificent convergence of various art forms. It brought together actors, singers, dancers, jugglers, and other performers to create an engaging spectacle. This fusion showcased the synergy and artistic unity that art can offer.
A Contemporary Take on Parade Theatre: The performance revitalized the traditional concept of parade theatre, originally from Renaissance France, by infusing it with contemporary elements. It was an immersive, ever-moving experience that ensured as many spectators as possible could witness it while adhering to gathering restrictions.
Interactive Stops: At select moments during the procession, the performers engaged with the spectators, providing them with a contemporary interpretation of parade entertainment. This interactive element added a layer of engagement and excitement to the event.
Circus Arena and Art Discoveries: The circus arena and Quadrennial artworks featured in the performance, offering a dynamic experience that allowed the audience to discover and appreciate contemporary art in innovative ways.
“We vote with our wallets “
"We Vote with Our Wallets" is a captivating and thought-provoking site-specific performance , closely associated with the Foundation INITIUM. The performance features combination of contemporary dance , aerial dance and acrobatics to convey a powerful message about personal responsibility in the context of human-induced impacts on the natural world.
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This innovative performance is an immersive experience that engages its audience in a dynamic exploration of our roles in the intricate processes affecting the environment. Six young and highly skilled professional dancers use contemporary dance to create vivid imagery and relatable situations that mirror the pace of modern life. Spectators are not passive observers but active participants who have the opportunity to make choices that influence the unfolding narrative, shedding light on the often hidden consequences of our decisions.
"We Vote with Our Wallets" is specifically designed for a target audience ranging from grades 7 to 12, making it an ideal educational experience for young individuals. The performance masterfully combines audio and visual elements to depict stories and situations where there are no clear-cut "good" or "bad" choices, but rather a spectrum of processes with varying outcomes, demanding that we all make decisions.
The production raises profound questions about the impact of humanity on the natural world and the degree of influence each individual can have on societal processes. It invites the audience to ponder a world without human intervention and to contemplate the role we play in shaping our environment. These inquiries form the core of the performance, challenging the viewers to reflect on their own choices and the broader implications they hold.
Moreover, "We Vote with Our Wallets" serves as an introduction to the world of contemporary dance, demonstrating how this genre of performing arts can convey abstract concepts without becoming overly illustrative. The precision of contemporary dance allows it to use body language to tell a concrete and perceptible story, effectively communicating the production's message. Notably, the dancers in this performance are exceptional, being the only ones in Latvia who have achieved a professional level of proficiency in aerial dance, which combines elements of aerial acrobatics and contemporary dance. This unique blend of acrobatic artistry, performed by dancers in circus-style aerial silks, adds an exciting and surprising dimension to the exploration of serious global issues.
The performance's stage composition, choreographed by an expert in the field, guides the audience through a memorable and transformative journey. By skillfully combining these diverse performing arts elements, "We Vote with Our Wallets" offers a captivating and unforgettable experience that encourages contemplation and engagement with pressing environmental and societal concerns. The production's directing consultant, Dmitrijs Petrenko, and the talented participants from the creative union "LDM5" and the dance school "Dzirnas" have come together to deliver a remarkable and thought-provoking performance that challenges our understanding of personal responsibility in the face of complex global challenges.