__ lighting design __

In “Himalaya,” choreographer Elisa Zuppini continues her research into the material and sensual dimensions of the body and into the reality as a complex web of different systems. 

Her quest addresses the irreconcilable, that which cannot fully coexist, the most dazzling aspects of artificial aesthetics, or synthetic hybridisation when reflecting those through the body. By investigating certain aspects of reality, she scrutinises slow tempos of erosion within the geological realm, accelerating images of digital space, and the repetition and obsessiveness of mechanical bodies.

In “Himalaya,” she explores the conflict between these systems, as if they were moving tectonics that collide but do not fully integrate with each others. This can be seen as a metaphor for the way these, and other systems, may operate in our minds: disjointed yet related, forced, and unsettled.

Zuppini’s performance transports us to the threshold of a cinematic atmosphere, converging elements of sci-fi, sculpture, and fashion, encouraging a contemplation on the nature of time and multiplicity.

Accompanied by the original music of groundbreaking composer M.E.S.H. (James Whipple), whose music landscapes consist of layered sound textures, sourced both from the organic and the synthetic, the choreography explores unexpected places and evokes a sense of time flowing irregularly. This experience is further heightened by the lighting design of Pablo Fontdevila and the  performance of Federica Dalla Pozza, who skilfully navigates diverse expressions, and as a character, constantly search to transgress its own given figure.

Concept & choreography
Elisa Zuppini

Performer
Federica Dalla Pozza

Live sound
M.E.S.H. (James Whipple)

Dramaturgy
Bruno Listopad

Lighting design
Pablo Fontdevila

Production assistance
Michael Scerbo, Ludovica Daddi

Camera and editing
Saskia Habermann

Produced and supported by Amsterdam Fonds voor de Kunst, ICK Amsterdam, Choreographic Center Heidelberg, Ricerca X, Armunia Teatri, RAM – Residenze Artistiche Marchigiane (promoted by MiC and Regione Marche

Performances:
2024
– Spider Festival (Ljubljana, SI)
2023
– Feeling Curious? Festival / Theater Rotterdam (Rotterdam, NL)