Illuminate 2012 is the second season of our Illuminate Performance Initiative and Expand Choreographic Program, designed to give emerging choreographers the chance to develop new dance works and have them presented with full production values to a live audience.
Illuminate 2012 is a rich tapestry of stories through movement and emotion, where each piece resonates with its own unique story.
... Experience "In the Moment" an exploration of improvised dance by guest choreographer Tim Rodgers, pushing boundaries and unveiling new dimensions of performance.
.... Jo McDonald's "My Conversation with Solitude" delves into the depths of introspection and solitude, offering a poignant reflection on inner discovery.
... Melissa Hill's "Tangle" brings chance and unpredictability to life.
... Juliette Griffin's "The Detectives" adds a touch of mystery and slapstick humor, and her second piece "Sister Song" celebrates sisterhood and feminine strength, complemented by live music
... Kirsty Duncan's "Ripple" echoes the beauty of coral reefs and community.
Program
IN THE MOMENT
Guest Choreographer Tim Rodgers
Performed by all dancers in the company
In the Moment’, an improvised dance work utilising movement tools that he has equipped the dancers with. This is the first delve into improvised performance for many of the dancers and has been a great opportunity for growth as performers.
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MY CONVERSATION WITH SOLITUDE
Choreographed and performed by Jo McDonald
Solitude. Time alone. Alone. Lonely. Space. Breath. Solitude can be rejuvenating, boring, soulful… and terrifying. For me, solitude is more than a friend—it's been my mentor, guiding me to my inner self. It's where I've found solace, faced the abyss, and discovered the still point where I find something bigger than myself. In solitude, I've learned responsibility and the strength to stand tall when no one else is there. It's a space where I've peeled back layers to reveal hope and light. In its stillness, I find wonder in nature's smallest moments—like a leaf twirling in freefall or the gentle hum of insects at dusk.
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TANGLE
Choreographer Melissa Hill
Performed by Kirsty Duncan, Christine Mauch, Kelly Moritz, Daniel Turbill
"Tangle" is a choreography driven by chance, with each movement decided by a roll of the dice. Inspired by the lyrics of Emma Louise's "Jungle," this piece blends emotive words with unpredictable movement. The result is a lyrical dance that explores the tangled mind of a confused lover.
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THE DETECTIVES
Choreographer Juliette Griffin
Performed by Cherie Broad, Juliette Griffin and guest artist Alex Knox
Keep your eyes peeled at all times. Any unidentified object will be treated as a serious threat to our safety and all those in its vicinity. Watch out ... the detectives are on the case again! This piece is reminiscent of silent films and classic slapstick, influenced by Juliette’s background in contemporary dance, physical theatre and circus
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SISTER SONG
Choreographer Juliette Griffin
Performed by Juliette Griffin, and guest dancer Alex Knox
Live music by Michelle Ignacio
Two sisters journey together, mirroring memories of play, grace, and sibling rivalry. They embody strength, softness, and vulnerability, celebrating the support of their ancestral lineage. "Sister Song" explores the feminine, drawing from personal experiences and connections with mothers and feminine history. Initially performed with live Irish flute music, the piece evolved to include a female musician, highlighting the strength and solidarity of sisterhood.
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RIPPLE
Choreographer Kirsty Duncan
Performed by Cherie Broad, Louise Durrans, Melissa Hill, Karen Humphreys, Christine Mauch
"Ripple" reflects the curves of coral, the intricacy of crochet, and the power of community. Inspired by the vibrant colors and textures of the RiAus Adelaide Reef Project, the movement explores crocheting gestures, hyperbolic space, geometric principles, and the beauty and devastation of coral as an organic structure.
Project credits
Artistic Director
Jo McDonald
Associate Artistic Director
Kirsty Duncan
Choreographers
Jo McDonald, Melissa Hill, Juliette Griffin, Kirsty Duncan
Guest Choreographer
Tim Rodgers
Dancers
Cherie Broad, Christine Mauch, Daniel Turbill, Jo McDonald, Juliette Griffin, Karen Humphreys, Kelly Moritz, Kirsty Duncan, Louise Durrans, Melissa Hill
Guest Dancer
Alex Knox
Guest Musician (for Sister Song)
Michelle Ignacio
Graphic Design
Kirsty Duncan
Filmed by
Juha Vanhakatarno of Icebreaker Productions