Seclusion and isolation. Freedom and boundlessness. The new production of choreographer Pál Frenák concerns the walls within and without, our barriers and ways to cross them, be they psychological, historical, social or physical obstacles. What is it that confines us or separates us from others? What can open and break down barriers? How does imagination work? How do we construct new, parallel realities in order to make our present liveable, or to rewrite our past?
Beyond the flying motif that has occupied Pál Frenák for many years, this new creation was inspired by Alan Parker's film drama Birdy, the American writer William Wharton's 1978 novel of the same name, and Raymond Depardon's documentary film San Clemente. As customary with the choreographer's work, the new production offers an exciting and unique spatial experience. On this occasion, Frenák creates an unusual set design for the dance performance with the collaboration of designers from the Tervhivatal (PlanBureau) architecture practice. An extraordinary metal labyrinth has been built, evoking the world of 3D graphic design programs and made up of traversable elements almost 2.5 metres in height. The structure creates a compelling and grandiose space, which was inspired by architect Dániel Lakos's design award-winning, innovative 3D puzzle Logifaces. Once again, Frenák works with an international team: Cuban, French and Hungarian dancers take to the stage, and the sonic backdrop to the performance is also the product of international cooperation. The music for the production is the work of the young and astonishingly talented Berlin-based composer Norman Levy. The intensive, captivating electro-acoustic sounds characteristic of the company's productions are here contrasted with classical music études, featuring the wonderful live performance of cellist Endre Kertész.

The première was an event of the Budapest Spring Festival is presented by Müpa Budapest and National Dance Theatre.
Sponsored by: Müpa Budapest, National Dance Theatre, EMMI, NKA

Presented by: National Dance Theatre