Developing a visual sketch and potential collaborations in the frame work of the stipend Tanzpraxis:
with Naniek K. (81), Laurie Young (52), Dasniya Sommer (45) and Fungi Fung (32).
‘There is a big lack of spending time with older women.. ,’ Laurie said after these try outs, and I so agree. Most of my life I haven’t spent enough time with elderly people due to family constellations, project directions and seemingly unbridgeable cultural gaps. Both our Asian parents are/were not living in Europe, and during our dance try outs Naniek K. filled the room with a warm familiar vibe only elder Asian people do – which reminded us to them. It’s a certain perspective and wisdom they own. Keeping spirit and humour high, while often their non-linear live experience, living outside their culture for a long time, in western societies, resonate. She made us giggle pointing to the absurdest everyday live observations, laughing loudly always with dignity and a sense of humbleness. Also very non German, maintaining hand contact while talking to us, heart warming! Later she also told me some shadow sides about having an every day job in Western Germany in the 80es. I do remember these family stories of alienation.
If we were to develop a piece I am curious about finding choreographic translations for Laurie’s and Naniek K.‘s vast performative archive. Switching from directing to joining them as dancer could work after figuring out how their classical and contemporary dance forms relate and defining a position in this triangle. Also I am curious how the musical concept we conceptualised for Fungi plays into it.
Even if beyond resources I find testing these small scale ideas as a first step essentially productive. The stipend was strongly supportive! It allowed me to chew and reflect over creative topics and intangible gut feelings for longer than usual. It gave time to find the right group and organise ideas. Thanks again to the choreographer Jee Chan who supported this collaboration.
There is an irony for me unfolding my dance practice with such wise dancers only now. But it makes sense. Seems I had to first grow into the machinery and performance scene. I appreciate this reverse opportunity: going from intense body-/ performance art to creating a body friendly, long lasting, minimalist dance practice.

Photos: Fungi Fung.

With many thanks for the support to Senatskanzlei für Kultur und Medien Berlin / Tanzpraxis.