Lucy Guerin Inc: Split

This is a square, a stage, a world, a life. Australian choreographer Lucy Guerin confronts us by way of an unadorned choreographic investigation with a rigorous structural frame. Two women perform the same movements, one clothed and one naked. How do we perceive the difference? Does the naked body strike us as unprotected, sensual or as something untamed in the midst of the civilized world? And how does our viewpoint change when the women communicate? Suddenly the space is halved, there is less room, their time is shortened and they struggle over the last resources. Here, what is actually an extremely austere structure gives rise to a dramatic arc of oppressive tension – an ambiguous chamber play which, in its subtle dynamism, raises more and more questions about our relationships to one another, to our bodies and our prejudices. How are our images conditioned?

“Teeming with rage and passion, movement and complex relationships (...) Split is masterfully performed.” – The Age, Australia

“Both dancers are magnificent, totally absorbed in the work. (...) Split remains riveting from beginning to end.” – Dance Australia

“Ruminative, poignant and provocative, it is a work of intricate yet unadorned artistry.” – The Australian

Choreography: Lucy Guerin | Premiere: March 16, 2017, Melbourne | Duration: 50 minutes no intermission