THERE
Four dissidents from the former Soviet Union are stranded in the interzonal area between East and West. Nostalgia, psychological malfunctions, and desperate social needs create a far from harmonious atmosphere. But the essential question remains – should they continue towards the unknown or should they go back to what they know? More…
This is by far the most requested performance the company has ever made. Somehow audiences have warmly embraced this show in every country despite a pseudo-Sovietic topic. After more than 100 performances with almost invariably standing ovations, there has not yet been one mediocre review, only good ones. Which naturally has provoked some serious afterthought. For us this has been an important study in terms of where the communicative keys are hidden, what makes people associate, and where does the ambivalent wit encounter the underlying serious content. This production was also the turning point where we decided to focus more on actors than on dancers, but still with the movement-based expression.
After more than 6 years of silence, there are now concrete plans for more performances. However, this will be most exclusive and for very limited periods. If you are a programmer with a potential interest, the best thing would be to contact the office as soon as possible.
Less…THERE is Eastern Europe. There presents the Russia you cannot understand with logic.
You have caught the quintessence of the Soviet Union.
THERE is something as rare as a deeply original, entertaining, and touching piece.
The result is impressive ensemble work from four performers whose look of unforced, alert connection adds to the mystery and sadness.
Strømgren elevates everyday behavior into the realms of the bizarre and the extreme.
Language: Nonsensical “Sovietic”
Touring: Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Lithuania, Latvia, Russia, Estonia, Austria, Germany, England, Finland, The Faroe Islands, France, USA
Premiere: Vilnuis, Lithuania, April 2001
Awards: Norwegian HEDDA prize, 2001
Length: 60 min Choreography: Jo Strømgren Performers: John Fjelnseth Brungot/Jan Ivar Lund, Espen Reboli Bjerke, Thorbjørn Harr, Kyrre Texnæs Set design, costumes: Jo Strømgren Sound design: Lars Årdal Lighting design: Stephen Rolfe Music: Red Army Choir, Alexander Vertinski, Viktor Klimenko, Haukur Morthens, a.o. Production: Jo Strømgren Kompani Co-production: Haugesund Teater (N), BIT Teatergarasjen (N), Projekttheater Dresden (D), Lithuanian Dance Information Centre Collaboration: The Norwegian National Theater, Oslo Nye Teater (N), The National Academy of Dramatic Arts (N) Support: The Norwegian Council for Cultural Affairs, Bergen City Council, Fund for performing artists.
Download: Technical Rider
