Intimate Space is a series of experiential site-specific solo and duet works of dance theatre presented within a hotel.
On this travelling adventure, a Hotels sophisticated bar and lush rooms with views are contrasted by the stark undertones of the nooks and crannies of its back-of-house operations. Guided by an evocative soundscape, the physical conversation takes a similarly diverse journey. Guests will witness a tender and cheeky duet in a private room then an urgent physical explosion in the laundry. All looks neat and tidy but what is going on behind the scenes of these emotional dance vignettes?
Presented in a transient place unsuspecting guests unknowingly form the backdrop to the performance by going about their everyday business in the hotel space.
Challenging themes of visibility, authority, self-worth and relationships, the dancers ask you to uncover meaning in the delicately crafted movement. Both elegant and humorous, be surprised and enchanted by this exquisite performance experience.
The Restless dancers are charming, engaging and unique. The individuality of the artists is a major strength of the company. They may not fit the stereotypical dancer image but it is in their difference that you see their beauty and creativity. Audience members will be surprised, perplexed and enchanted by the exquisite performance experience.
“Hotel spaces have always intrigued me; rich with private stories and intimate exchanges but existing within the public realm. I have frequently been touched by the tenderness and surprised by the intensity of people’s connections that I have seen while sitting in the hotel bar or lobby next to my home.
I see people watching these private moments too, bringing their own stories to each situation they witness. Sometimes seeing themselves in what they see. So, I’m a voyeur. I can’t help but look at people and I’m aware that people look at me too – because I’m different to them. Perhaps they are trying to find a way to see themselves in something or someone unfamiliar to them?
The show is an invitation: to look… or look away?” – Michelle Ryan
Presentations:
- Adelaide Festival, Hitlon Adelaide, March 2017
- Seoul Street Arts Festival, New Seoul Hotel, September 2019
Awards:
- The Ruby Awards 2016, Nomination – Best New Work
- Helpmann Award 2017, Nomination – Best Dance Production
- The Ruby Awards 2017, Winner – Arts Innovation and Enterprise
- Adelaide Critics Circle Award 2017, Winner – Group Award (Professional Theatre)
- Helpmann Award 2018, Nomination – Best Dance Production
Director Michelle Ryan
Assistant Director Josephine Were
Music Soundscape Jason Sweeney
Lighting Design Geoff Cobham
Designer Meg Wilson
Creative Producer Roz Hervey
