Lads (2017/18)
Lads is a performance piece that looks at queering masculinity in dance history, whilst questioning how class structures play a role in defining masculinity. The work reconfigures a dance battle between two figures wearing Adidas tracksuits, which sees each performer mould and move between sculptural poses from art and dance history. Through the performers’ movements and an accompanying sound piece created by Naoto Hieda using a movement responsive computer programme, the work seeks to shift traditional perceptions of time.
The #Lads hashtag is usually reserved for traditional displays of masculinity and normative gender roles. Alongside the performance installation, this virtual space is occupied and co-opted with contrasting critical images to explore how the work collides with popular culture. Audiences are invited to post photos and videos of the work, or others of their choosing, onto Instagram using the hashtag #Lads.
Follow on Instagram @Lads2017.
performers: Neve Harrington, Samir Kennedy, Elena Light, Christopher Matthews
sound design: Naoto Hieda
rehearsal direction: Neve Harrington
supported in part by residency at Villa Empain, Foundation Boghossian Brussels and research at Choreographic Coding Lab Amsterdam through Naoto Hieda/ Pola Arts Foundation. as well as commission and grant funding from Arts Council England and Sadler’s Wells Theatre
all photos by Camilla Greenwell