2024

Description of project:
“This dance is not for you” is an artistic project that attempts to activate memories of collective rituals, focusing on rituals of communities that try not to integrate into mass and commercial culture. Special emphasis is placed on the Greek punk subculture and Anastenaria. The interest in the collective rituals of the roots in the observation that the shared ecstatic feeling and the synchronization of the bodies, looks like a communal practice of love, as there is a “dissociation” of the individual ego.
The limits and possibilities of the stage interpretation of such rituals will be explored, without compromising their mystical and “underground” character. The purpose is the creation of a kinetic, choreographic and sound “toolbox” through which the ecstatic rituals and the practices of the performing arts could potentially mingle.

Open presentation by Stali Symeon (Artistic Residency program 2024)
Saturday December 07^th 2024
20:30, Free Entrance

Dance and movement research workshop by Stali Symeon
Sunday December 08^th 2024, 12:00-14:00
Free submission

Stali Symeon

Stali Simeon studied Political Science at university of Athens and Dance at Aktina Higher Professional School of Dance. She continues with post-graduate studies in Dance at the Antwerp Conservatory doing research on the corporeality and rituals of the social fringe. As part of her postgraduate research “This Dance Is Not For You” she participated in the residency 10 days to 10′, in the summer residencies at P.A.R.T.S. and DeSingel. Her work Eternally Alive, participated in the Container Festival in Thessaloniki, was presented in Athens at M54, and later a second version of the work Eternally Alive- A2 at the “On Bodies” Festival at the Dance House Nicosia. Since 2020 she collaborates with the BPM theater group as a choreographer (Rematia Festival, Mavromichali Theatre, PLYFA, Neos Kosmos Theatre, All Greece one Culture). In recent years she has participated as a dancer-performer in the creations of: La Coja Dansa, Belleville collective, Kiki Baka, Vaso Giannakopoulou, Sandra Grimma, Elisavet Pliakostathi, Hara Kassaraki, Varvara Bardaka, Anthi Drilia, Sofia Kouloukouri. She teaches dance and yoga.

Description of project: Range
The color palette of today’s composers is no longer limited to the classical range of musical instruments. All sounds can become music. In his music, Egid Joechl often works with sounds from the environment and nature and combines them with traditional instruments. During the residency, he will create a sound installation with recorded sounds and impressions of Greece, mixed with sounds from the Austrian mountains and classical musical instruments. The result will be presented at the end of the residency. It will also be incorporated into a music theater piece that will be performed in Innsbruck in January 2025.

Open presentation: Friday October 18^th 2024
21:30, Free Entrance
Open presentation by the composer Egid Joechl (Artistic Residency program 2024) and performance by Dimitris Baltas and Konstantina Thanasouli

Master class: Echoes. An insight into contemporary sounds in ruins
Saturday October 12^th, 11:00-12:00
Free submission

Egid Joechl

Egid Joechl was born on December 7, 1982, in Kitzbühel and grew up in the area. He studied composition and music theory at the University of Art in Graz and took part in various master classes. He writes works for different line-ups and different styles, with a focus on New music and Sound installations. In 2018 he was Artist in Residence in Lisbon and in 2019 in New York. In 2020 he was awarded the Hilde Zach Composition Scholarship from the City of Innsbruck. Egid Joechl currently lives and works in Innsbruck.
www.joechl-music.com/

Description of project:
Through our mutual interest in traditional music and dances from all over Greece – one as a musician and the other a dancer – we wonder in what ways we can co-create influenced by them.
Having as our starting point specific steps, with different characteristics, measures, rhythms, and origins, we will attempt to study the kinesiology that is created as well as how one moves as a unit. The traditional dances of our land are by definition group (or binary) dances. What changes when we remove such a basic characteristic from them?
By selecting and studying music with different styles, measures, arrangements, meanings, symbolisms, and themes, we will attempt to extract elements from them, record sounds connected to memories related to tradition and our perception of it, and finally, create a framework for live performance of electroacoustic music. All this in a harmonious encounter of movement and sound.

Open presentation: Saturday May 25^th 2024
21:30, Free Entrance

Co existing – Improvisation workshop for dancers and musicians
Saturday May 25^th 2024, 17:00-19:00
Sunday May 26^th 2024, 12:00-14:00
Free submission

Olga Kalantzi

Olga Kalantzi was born in Athens in 1994. She studied at the Department of Product and Systems Design Engineering in Syros and at the Higher Professional School of Dance “Aktina” in Athens. She has worked with Akropoditi Dance Theatre in Syros and SQx Dance Company in Canada. She now lives in Athens and teaches traditional dances together with Andreas Segditsas. In 2023 she presented her solo “WRAP: a pocket guide to never escaping yourself” in Athens, Portugal and Turkey and took part in the All4fun audience theatre awards at the Ideal cinema. She also collaborates with Collective Spine for the work “La Soiree”.
She is interested in practices, improvisation tools and research on elements such as freedom and restriction, order and disorder, form and amorphousness, as well as collaboration and strengthening the connection between people.
https://vimeo.com/867540517

Filippos Raskovic

Filippos Raskovic is a composer, improviser and curator from Athens, Greece based in Vilnius, Lithuania. His work creates a sonic world; accidental and composed, recognizable and unexpected simultaneously.
As a composer, he often creates interdisciplinary work with visual artists and in close relation to instrumentalists with a focus on the acoustics of objects, sculptures, and spaces. In 2021 he completed the performative installation “Echo Chambers” in close collaboration with the sculptor D.Tampakis which was developed during his FUGA residency in Spain and together with the collective UN P R 18T (Un. Processed Realities), they created “POST EUROPEAN RAGEROOM TM” a performance & pop-up exhibition shown atCentrum Berlin.
As an improviser, he self-released his first album “gentle presence” in 2020 and has performed at the Monopiano Festival 2021 at Fylkingen, Sweden, State51 Studios, London, Flatterschafft – Basel, Flatterschafft: THE END – DefDefDefinitive, Studium P, Vilnius and Chimeres, Athens, amongst others. He is also a founding member of “illucid trio” with Kazimieras Jusinskas and Gediminas Stepanavicius. In 2019 he co-founded the KRAMA collective and festival an independent initiative aiming to present a new outlook within the art scene of Athens and beyond. Finally, he is a monthly resident host at the independent web radio “Radio Vilnius” and co-producer of the show Krama Entries at movement radio.
www.raskovicfilippos.com

Description of project:
Affirming our Identity: A co-creative project

This ambitious and transformative project is dedicated to delving into the profound experiences of LGBTQ+ artists, a queer composer, and the general public, as they navigate the intricate web of systemic discrimination based on their gender identity and sexual orientation. Through the careful curation of renowned artists from diverse backgrounds around the world, the project endeavors to foster connections among communities, providing valuable opportunities for engagement in high-quality dance. Moreover, this project seeks to shine a spotlight on positive role models, illuminating the path towards acceptance, understanding, and societal transformation. In close collaboration with relevant partners, the project will place utmost importance on cultivating engagement and support for the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community. With a strong focus on inclusivity, participants from the broader LGBT population will have the exceptional opportunity to embark on an empowering journey, exploring their boundless creativity through expertly guided movement improvisation sessions. These sessions, led by seasoned queer teachers, will serve as pivotal moments in shaping our collective creative process. Collaborating seamlessly with esteemed queer dance professionals, we will work tirelessly to craft an awe-inspiring evening-length performance piece. This performance will serve as a captivating tapestry, interwoven with the aspirations, dreams, and narratives of the participants, ultimately placing them at the very heart of our extraordinary artistic journey. The culmination of our collective efforts will not only bring crucial issues into the spotlight but also kindle a fervent desire for meaningful social change.
Guided by the expertise of our accomplished queer teachers, participants will embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and expression. Through movement improvisation sessions, we will create a safe and supportive space where participants can freely explore their unique identities, transcending societal norms and embracing their authentic selves. These sessions will provide a profound opportunity to connect with the deepest facets of one’s being, tapping into emotions, experiences, and personal stories that shape the tapestry of their lives. As participants embark on this voyage of self-exploration, the dance floor will become a sacred space for catharsis, growth, and empowerment.
By joining forces with distinguished queer dance professionals, we will forge a collaborative environment that nurtures and celebrates artistic growth. Drawing from a rich tapestry of dance styles and techniques, participants will expand their movement vocabulary, unleashing their creative potential. As they learn and embody choreographic phrases that are specifically designed to explore LGBTQ+ themes and experiences, participants will forge a deep connection with the subject matter. This process of transformation will empower individuals to communicate their personal narratives through the language of dance, transcending boundaries and inspiring others with their resounding authenticity.
In addition to the transformative power of movement, this project will foster a culture of open dialogue, inspiring discussions, and collective reflection. Intimate group discussions, carefully facilitated by our experienced team, will provide a platform for participants to delve into the profound themes explored through improvisation and choreography. These discussions will invite participants to share their insights, questions, and lived experiences, cultivating a deep sense of empathy and understanding among the group. As diverse perspectives intertwine, new insights will emerge, challenging preconceived notions and fostering growth on both personal and societal levels.
The culmination of this extraordinary journey will be an enchanting and thought-provoking evening-length performance. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their individual or collective creations, breathing life into their stories, struggles, and triumphs. Through a captivating tapestry of movement and artistic expression, the performance will serve as a profound medium for storytelling, illuminating the path towards social change. With each step, leap, and gesture, participants will inspire audiences to embrace diversity, challenge prejudice, and foster a more inclusive world.
This visionary project endeavours to transcend the boundaries of dance, delving deep into the experiences of LGBTQ+ artists, a queer composer, and the general public. By nurturing creativity, embracing diversity, and igniting conversations, we aim to break down the barriers of systemic discrimination. Through guided movement improvisation sessions, the acquisition of choreographic phrases, and empowering discussions, participants will embark on a transformative journey of self-expression, growth, and empowerment. With the support and collaboration of esteemed queer dance professionals, we will collectively weave an evening-length performance that breathes life into the participants’ aspirations, placing their narratives at the heart of our artistic journey. Ultimately, this project aims to illuminate crucial issues, inspire empathy, and ignite a fervent desire for social change, paving the way towards a more inclusive and accepting society for all.

Open presentation: Sunday February 25^th 2024
20:30, Free Entrance

Physicalising our identity through movement: Masterclass by Julian Nichols and Alex Henderson
Saturday February 24^th 2024, 17:00-20:00
Free submission

Julian Nichols

Julian Nichols, born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, is a talented dancer, choreographer, and activist. He has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary dance, both as a performer and as a promoter of gender inclusivity in the field. In 2017, Julian graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Conservatory of Dance at Purchase College, SUNY. During his time at college, he had the opportunity to study abroad at Taipei National University of the Arts in Taipei, Taiwan, where he collaborated with renowned international artists, broadening his perspective on dance. Throughout his career, Julian has had the privilege of performing works by several esteemed choreographers, including Aszure Barton, Tom Weinberger, Jose Limón, Brian Brooks, Kyle Abraham, Darryl Tracy, Allen Kaeja, Rosalind Newman, Emily Molnar, Alexander Whitley, Carol Anderson, Fanny Ghoreyab, Hanna Kiel, Maxine Doyle, and Roy Assaf. His repertoire showcases his versatility and skill, allowing him to interpret a wide range of choreographic styles and concepts. Julian’s talent and versatility were also recognized when he had the opportunity to dance for Hanna Kiel’s Human Body Expression, demonstrating his artistic range in different collaborative endeavours. Additionally, Julian has made significant contributions to the Amina Khayyam Dance Company, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication as a dancer. His involvement with Nimbus Dance Works as a company member and his guest artist work with The Limón Company further solidify his reputation within the dance community. Furthermore, Julian’s skills have been sought after in the realm of television, music videos, and commercials, where he has brought his artistry to the screen, captivating audiences with his performances. His ability to adapt and excel in diverse settings is a testament to his versatility and professionalism as a dancer. Whether on stage, in front of the camera, or collaborating with fellow artists, Julian continues to leave an indelible mark on the dance industry. In his quest for artistic growth, Julian has actively sought training opportunities at prestigious dance programs and workshops. He has participated in Springboard Danse Montreal, The School at Jacob’s Pillow, Momentum Montreal, and the Movement Invention Project. These experiences have allowed him to refine his technique, expand his creative horizons, and connect with dancers and choreographers from around the world. In recent years, Julian has shifted his focus towards composition and activism. He founded his own nonprofit organization called Bodies in Action ~ enGendering Contemporary Dance, with the aim of promoting equal representation of all gender identities in the field of contemporary dance. Through this initiative, Julian strives to challenge traditional norms and create a more inclusive and diverse dance community. Since its inception, Julian has created a short dance film, two evening-length works, and multiple duets, solos, and group pieces. Julian’s passion for dance extends beyond his own performances and activism. He has also shared his knowledge and expertise through teaching engagements. He has conducted company classes for prestigious dance companies such as the Rambert Dance Company, New Adventures, Corey Baker Dance in London, and NDC Wales in Cardiff. By teaching and mentoring aspiring dancers, Julian contributes to the growth and development of the next generation of dance artists. Currently based in London, UK, Julian continues to make a profound impact on the dance world through his performances, choreography, and advocacy work. His dedication to pushing boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and fostering inclusivity in contemporary dance establishes him as a dynamic and influential figure in the field.

Description of project: The Boundless Food project

This new artistic project is about the complex and multifaceted relationship we have with food, our habits, the repetitive patterns we follow, and the boundaries that confine us. Through a series of paintings, this project seeks to challenge preconceived notions, question societal norms, and spark conversations about our culinary experiences.
Through the exploration of repetitive patterns and movements, “the boundless food project” will take shape on deep studies using my own body to understand and examine the cyclic nature of my own eating habits, raising questions about their impact on my overall well-being.
It will be also very interesting to work with other volunteers. I would like to document the whole process of research through dance and movement.
After this first step, I want to develop preparatory drawings of those gestures that govern our eating routines, from daily rituals to indulgences, and examines the boundaries – both physical and psychological – that surround our choices.
At the end of residency, I would love to present few paintings celebrating the pleasures of culinary exploration while shedding light on the potential pitfalls and limitations of our habits and societal expectations.
By intertwining elements of personal introspection with universal themes, this project endeavors to inspire viewers to break free from rigid patterns, embrace culinary diversity, and cultivate a more mindful and liberated approach to food.

Open presentation: Saturday 27 January 2024
20:30, Free Entrance

Workshop of visual arts and movement with Valentine Bouvet
Saturday January 20^th: 17:30-20:00
Free submission

Valentine Bouvet

Valentine BOUVET is a French artist and figurative painter born in 1994.
Her journey as an artist began during her childhood and later when she was experimenting with different art mediums. She first studies applied arts during high school where she developed a real interest in drawing and fashion design. Then, she decided to deepen both cursus and practice her art aside working for different brands as fashion designer.
During her 20’s, Valentine developed a deep passion for paintings and was particularly drawn to the expressive power of color. Her works delves into a wide range of costal and cultural issues, such as gender stereotypes, consumerism, beauty standards and the impact of social media. This year, she participates, for the second time, to Le Cercle de l’Art, a big community of women artists who work on sharing their artistic process and encouraging others to use art as a means of expression and social change.