Manoeuvre
Dutch National Opera & Ballet
Juanjo Arqués is signing with Manoeuvre for the world premiere in Back to Ballet. Arqués is using John Adams' exceptional composition 'Shaker Loops' (Erasmus Prize 2019), in which the composer managed to convert wave motion into sound. The wave movement in 'Shaker Loops' is reflected in the s-shaped set design by Tatyana van Walsum, for the new ballet for the Dutch National Ballet.
Manoeuvre is danced by seven male dancers, shifting the ballet's attention to male sensitivity. The creation process starts from the emotion and from there searches for form and movement. A path winding between different moods leads to a more complete self-image.
“In Manoeuvre, the choreography for this boys’ club, there are not only angular shapes, clenched fists, rugby postures, and brawls to be seen, but gestures also emerge that express fear, desire, and care with softer energy. A winding rail with a transparent curtain divides the stage into two spaces, each of which separates an individual from the group. That canvas lies on the floor at the end, as if the taboo on emotions has been removed.”