Dynamic contemporary dance choreographers, Sarah Aiken and Rebecca Jensen and Darebin Arts Speakeasy present the world premiere of Underworld – a dark, thoughtful, humorous and hopeful environmental horror at Northcote Town Hall from 30 August to 9 September 2017.
Underworld incorporates hard style dance, dark magic and warm ups for death in a camping trip that takes an unexpected turn. A prequel to Aiken and Jensen’s Dance Massive 2015 and Next Wave 2014 work Overworld, the production draws inspiration from the 1978 Australiana horror film Long Weekend. A cautionary tale, Underworld delves into the dark and murky in-betweens that exist amidst the things we think we know and understand.
Aiken and Jensen recycle and re-contextualise content – considering materiality, questioning appropriation and asking what is ours to take. In line with their ethos as makers, the work is practically and conceptually recycled, producing a work that is richly layered and environmentally conscious.
All physical material, props and costumes have been sourced from waste product, repurposed or upcycled items. Created and performed by Sarah Aiken and Rebecca Jensen with Claire Leske and Louella Hogan, Underworld weaves together movement, sound and film, with the unique soundtrack created by musician/DJ/radio presenter Andrew Wilson (aka Art Wilson/Andras) and lighting design by Matt Adey.
Sarah Aiken and Rebecca Jensen have received support, residencies and critical acclaim for their collaborative projects as well as local, national and international recognition. Both have had works in the Kier Choreographic Award and through ongoing projects such as Deep Soulful Sweats and their independent projects are making a mark on the independent dance scene.
Underworld
Main Hall – Northcote Town Hall, 189 High Street Northcote
Season: 31 August – 9 September 2017 (preview: 30 August)
Information and Bookings: www.darebinarts.com.au
Image: Sarah Aiken and Rebecca Jensen and Darebin Arts Speakeasy present the world premiere of Underworld (supplied)