Enter The Novacene

Can you feel the tension between humanity and technology? The sense that we are on the brink of a world in which the human and the machine are intertwined? Maybe we are already there; maybe the very elementals of our world have already changed beyond belief? The prevalence of artificial intelligence has been cause for deep curiosity about what it means to be human and what AI’s place could be in society. This question is brought to life through the powerful physicality of dance in Novacene, choreographed by Wayne McGregor and inspired by the James Lovelock non-fiction book of the same name.

Image on the left by Jack Thomson

“What is the future human? A Novacene CYBORG 2023.”

Wayne McGregor

The costume design for this project, a production by the National Youth Dance Company, is the work of English fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner. Known for intelligent, refined collections that expertly blend influences from her mixed heritage, Wales Bonner’s intent with this exciting collaboration was to ‘allow the young artists to shine with their full individuality and energy’.

Image by Jack Thomson

McGregor’s choreography is renowned for its dynamism, with pieces like Chroma drawing on his expertise in contemporary choreography to reshape the elementals of ballet into a beast of almost overwhelming drama and electricity.

Novacene is a showcase of his trademark innovative spirit through emerging young talent. 34 dancers from across 19 UK towns and cities will be taking the piece on a national tour following a performance at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre on Saturday the 3rd of June.

“The passion and optimism these dancers emit is infectious. If we ever need reminding why humans dance – you can feel it with them every day in the studio.”

Wayne McGregor

With this year marking the 10th anniversary of the NYDC, the tour dates will also be accompanied by various celebratory events and the Sadler’s Wells Learning & Engagement department will be providing free school workshops across the country. With a now decade-long track record of showcasing exceptional young talent, this year’s show is not to be missed for those on the lookout for exciting developments in the dance world.

Information on tour dates for Novacene can be found Here

If you enjoyed reading Enter The Novacene, why not try Spring Rite.

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