This summer I was kindly invited by Szuper galley to be a performer in a new developing work implementing the concept of social choreography. We were asked informally to keep this project under wraps, but I can’t help myself.
PLASTIC/GLITTER/BONES has already ‘breached’ this request in his rather apt review of his experience; and I being ‘sheep’ will follow suit, in a subtle rather rushed manner.
I am part of a group of 10. Each day we meet, collectively, for rehearsals which last approximately 7 hours:
Day 1: Briefing and Costumes
Side note- My memory of the order of the following events is flawed.
We were shown clips from 1940’s nuclear war films which were, as you guessed; ridiculous. Propaganda emblazoned; Patriotism; The need to do ‘something’, anything to defeat the enemy. Images of workers stacking bails to prevent nuclear bombs. Cause that really works?
The found footage was not shown to us performers in vain; it was to inspire our synchronised dance moves, so that we felt a connection to the ideology, of that period, and movement of the workers conveyed in the clips.
ooo
We tried on our ever so psychedelic outfits, designed by my multi-talented tutor.
Christine I’m talking neon coloured stripes and metallic swimming caps, with ear flaps. Her brief was to design futuristic farming costumes and that she did. We all looked special.
ooo
Day 2: Old house farm
Initially we familiarised ourselves with the choreography devised by Michele. We set off to the location to shoot these steps that emulate farmer people working the field. Our university owns a derelict, but spatially apt, farm so this setting was perfect for us ‘workers’.
This day tested my boundaries in more ways than one. I’m a city slicker. I tried 150% to adjust to the foul smells of farm animal excrement. The activities I underwent were intense and brutal. I was left with scraped elbows and bruises; nevertheless I had a damn good time. I also appreciate how far we have come as a human race with thriving new technology. Just consider, people who had to work land for insane amount of hours and under undesirable conditions.
ooo
All in all I’m having a ball. I am performing myself differently. I really enjoy working with my fellow creatives it’s the best thing that has happened to me in ages.
Social choreography at it's best! I'm still standing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpSwO0aJKHAMore updates soon.
Gareth Pugh
