One of Down Under’s most influential artistic forces, this powerhouse from Adelaide takes a radically distinctive trajectory fraught with risk. Artistic director Garry Stewart’s choreography is fast, aggressive, technically demanding, and eschews convention. The aesthetic is a riveting collage of classical ballet, martial arts, and athletic virtuosity. Unique soundscapes, lush video effects, and an extraordinary use of lighting accompany ADT’s thrilling displays of sheer physicality.
About the Company
37 years ago in Australia, one of the world’s most intriguing young dance companies was born. In 2000 Garry Stewart officially became the artistic director of the ADT, cultivating the ensemble’s edgy and acrobatic style. Under Stewart’s direction, the group has also focused on presenting alternative works in alternative spaces. This new focus was vividly articulated in Stewart’s first endeavor Housedance, which was performed on the sails of the Sydney Opera House for the Millennium Broadcast. Since then ADT has toured extensively through Europe, Asia and North America, and continues to stretch the boundaries of contemporary dance.
Critic's Comments
“…raw rhythms, frenzied footwork, and excessive energy…a heart stopping, eye-popping hour and 15 [minutes] of pure genius.”
-Suffolk on Stage
“ Stewart has re-created an exciting and visceral dance vocabulary. Gone are the mincing princes and soppy-eyed ballerinas of classical ballet. The dancers rocket through space, twisting and tumbling with grace.”
-The Advertiser, Adelaide
Evening's Program
BirdbrainGarry Stewart’s “cygnature” work is a surprising and entertaining deconstruction of the classic ballet, Swan Lake, drawing on contemporary dance, breakdance, contortionism, yoga, and gymnastics. This performance will be 70 minutes with no intermission.
Performances at Northrop
2005