The stage is set for 2025 with Sydney Dance Company’s hotly anticipated season, led by Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela. Plunge deep into Somos, a sensual realm of human connection, that explores the rich textures of love, passion and identity.
Somos is a bold work that invites audiences into a space where boundaries blur, unfiltered and wholly alive. Somos will premiere in Melbourne at the Arts Centre from March 13 to 23, before returning to Sydney’s Neilson Studio from March 27 to April 6.
A Celebration of Spanish Heritage and Queer Expression
Translating to “we are” in Spanish, Somos is Bonachela’s personal ode to his Spanish cultural heritage. Known for his signature emotive choreography that celebrates the individuality and strength of his dancers, Bonachela embarks on an intimate exploration of identity, passion, and connection in this work. Expect a vibrant journey through solos, duets, and trios imbued with a distinctly Spanish essence—sensual, raw, and beautifully human.
Bonachela’s influence for Somos was none other than legendary Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar, celebrated for his vivid storytelling and powerful portrayals of strong female characters. Inspired by Almodóvar’s rich use of Latin music, Bonachela curated a soundtrack featuring iconic Hispanic women artists, infusing the production with irresistible energy and heart.
In Bonachela’s words, “In 2023 we witnessed the profound impact Somos had on audiences. It is a magnetic, vibrant, and deeply moving work, which captivated Sydneysiders throughout an extended season. Partially created during our 2023 tour in Madrid, Somos draws on my Spanish heritage and the rich cultural influences of where we started to make the work. I’m excited to bring ‘Somos’ back to Sydney, with new company dancers and some new choreography. Somos connected so deeply last time and I can’t wait to share this work with audiences once again.”
An Immersive Dance Experience Like No Other
And for those who thrive on queer cultural cues, Somos is a dreamland of sensuality and celebration. Picture it: dancers intertwined in a pulsating rhythm of intimacy and liberation, all within arm’s reach of the audience. Performed in the round, the setup dissolves traditional audience boundaries, inviting you into a shared space of breath, motion, and emotion. This captivating closeness echoes the connection inherent in queer spaces—spaces where community thrives, and individuality shines.
Adding to the immersive experience, the foyer of Sydney Dance Company’s Neilson Studio will transform into the lively Bar Boca, a vibrant tapas bar perfect for pre and post-show gatherings. With tapas and drinks in hand, this promises to be a space to savour both the art and the energy of the community.
Introducing Fresh Talent to the Sydney Dance Company Ensemble
Somos not only offers a visual and auditory feast but also welcomes new faces into the Sydney Dance Company ensemble, including Mathilda Ballantyne, Mali Comlekci, Sonrisa Hubbard, Eka Perunicic, and Sam Winkler. Their debuts bring fresh energy to Bonachela’s magnetic choreography, promising a performance that’s as dynamic as it is unforgettable.
Don’t miss this chance to witness the transformative magic of Somos. It’s a celebration of identity, culture, and connection—perfect for lovers of dance and those who understand the beauty of a world without boundaries. With five-star reviews and a sold-out world premiere in 2023, the buzz is real. Queer, fierce, and achingly beautiful, Somos invites you to be part of something unforgettable.
Book your tickets now and let the passion of Somos sweep you off your feet.
More information is available at www.sydneydancecompany.com
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