Latvijas laikmetīgās dejas 30 gadu jubileja

Contemporary dance in Latvia celebrates its 30th anniversary this June with a series of interdisciplinary events in Valmiera and Limbažu novads. The celebrations highlight the intrinsic link between artistic freedom and the restoration of Latvian democracy. This milestone features collaborations between Latvian performers and international artists from the United States, Mexico, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

Why is the 30th anniversary of contemporary dance in Latvia significant?

The art form emerged nearly simultaneously with the restoration of Latvian democracy. Because of this timing, the anniversary focuses on how democratic values enabled the growth and opportunities within contemporary dance. The programming emphasizes openness and interdisciplinary cooperation, blending dance with other art forms.

Much of this activity centers on the KURTUVE contemporary art space in Valmiera, which is evolving into an interdisciplinary hub. The events demonstrate a push to move high-quality art production beyond the capital city and into regional areas.

Did You Know? Allyson Green, a choreographer and honorary dean at the Tisch School of the Arts, has authored more than 130 dance theater productions that have been performed in over 20 countries.

What events are marking the anniversary?

The program begins June 10 at 22:00 at the “Braslavas Kalniņi” LAUKKU homes in Limbažu novads. A light installation and dance improvisation titled “Heart Beats Light: Braslava” will open the festivities. This free event, created by Peter Terezakis, Allyson Green, Alan Stones, and Henry Torres Blanco, requires registration.

On June 13, the “Deja Today” team takes over KURTUVE. They’re launching the “Open Dance House” initiative, offering mentorship to local artists who submit original choreography. The day includes a public workshop from 11:00 to 14:00 based on the production “Crocodile Under the Carpet,” followed by a 17:00 evening program featuring “Local Love” and other mentored works.

The celebrations conclude June 14 in collaboration with the “Laiks dejot” festival. Highlights include:

16:00: A performance by Darja Turčenko and the “Sixth” company titled “Space Code: Here and Now” at the former swimming pool of Valmieras Pārgaujas State Gymnasium.
17:30: A video lecture on the history of Latvian contemporary dance at KURTUVE, featuring the 15-minute film “Light Dreams.”
19:00: A closing event in Vecpuišu park called “Sacred Sky, Sacred Earth,” featuring a Peter Terezakis installation and various short performances.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that by utilizing non-traditional venues like a former swimming pool, these artists are effectively challenging the “institutional power” of architecture. This approach transforms the physical environment from a static backdrop into an active participant in the performance.

Who are the international artists involved?

The anniversary brings together a seasoned group of collaborators. Peter Terezakis, an associate professor of visual arts at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, has integrated art and technology since 1974. His work ranges from jewelry to kinetic light installations in forests and deserts.

"Dance along" – NYU Tisch Dean Allyson Green

He works closely with choreographer Allyson Green and composer Alan Stones. This trio began collaborating with Latvian artists Intu Balodis and Olga Žitluhina in 2006. Additionally, Henry Torres Blanco from Mexico contributes to the interdisciplinary experience.

Elisabetta Bisaro, co-director of the “Aerowaves” platform, is also visiting. She’s currently in a curator residency at LAUKKU, exploring how contemporary art can better engage audiences in rural regions through unconventional cultural sites.

What may happen next for contemporary dance in regional Latvia?

The “Open Dance House” initiative could establish a new blueprint for regional art production. If the mentorship model provided by “Deja Today” proves successful, it may lead to a permanent increase in the quality of original choreography produced outside Rīga.

Furthermore, the residency work of Elisabetta Bisaro might result in new strategies for how contemporary art intersects with rural communities. This could potentially lead to more frequent use of “unusual forms” and non-traditional venues for future national festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy tickets for the events?
Tickets are available online and at all Biļešu paradīzes ticket offices.

Is the opening event on June 10 free?
Yes, the opening at “Braslavas Kalniņi” is free, though attendees are asked to register.

How can local artists participate in the “Open Dance House” initiative?
Local artists can submit original choreography videos up to 5 minutes long to [email protected] for a chance to receive mentor support.

Do you think moving art into non-traditional spaces, like old swimming pools or forests, changes how we experience a performance?