Danse Danse Saison 2009 2010

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“This unique, profoundly imagined work takes the concept of cultural exchange to a new level.” (The Guardian).

Named “Choreographer of 2008” by the European magazine ballettanz, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui returns to the Montreal stage with Sutra, a work as dazzling as it is unusual, created during a stay at the famous Shaolin temple in the Chinese province of Henan. With his young partner at his side, a l2-year-old monk, the eclectic choreographer orchestrates a ballet for 17 young Buddhist kung-fu masters … and 21 wooden boxes. Designed by the sculptor and visual artist Antony Gormley, these boxes are surprisingly versatile. “From pitons to bridges, shells to boats, the box is never quite a box” (Le Monde). Set to the superb music of Szymon Brzóska, performed live by five musicians, Sutra “keeps its promise of an unforgettable voyage into the possibilities of the body.” (La Croix)

The monks of the Shaolin temple

Shaolin, which can be translated as young or new forest, is the name of a group of Chinese monasteries, where Chan Buddhism is combined with a specific type of martial arts. The Buddhist monks appearing in the production of Sutra belong to the original Shaolin Temple, established circa 497 on Song Mountain, one of China’s five sacred mountains. While there are several schools and troupes offering kung fu productions inspired by the teachings of the Shaolin Temples, the true disciples of Shaolin philosophy—like the monks collaborating here on Sutra—participate in only one artistic project and one tour. Their lives are otherwise devoted to the practice of martial arts and meditation

Interview with Judith Mackrell, journalist at The Guardian

Rehearsals at Shaolin temple

CREDITS:

Sutra (2008)
With the monks of the Shaolin temple (China)

Direction and choreography: Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui
Visual creation and design: Antony Gormley
Music: Szymon Brzóska
With on stage Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and 17 monks of the Shaolin temple.
A production of Sadler’s Wells London

Coproductors: Athens Festival, Festival de Barcelona Grec, Grand Théâtre de Luxembourg, La Monnaie Brussels, Festival d’Avignon, Fondazione Musica per Roma and Shaolin Cultural Communcations Company
Photos: Hugo Glendinning

www.sadlerswells.com
Sutra rehearsal video

Duration: 70 minutes – without intermission

Detailed version