The very first time I stepped out on stage was in a whirl of white tulle, twirling in the glittering lights...yes, I was a snowflake! A snowflake in a tutu and tights, excited and nervous alongside a group of other little girls creating a snowstorm. We were the youngest performers in a Christmas pantomime and the adults seemed powerful and magnificent in their costumes and make up. I can still remember the smell of stage make-up, the lights, the audience…
When I step out on stage now I still feel that nervous excitement but also the power and magnificence that comes not from the audience’s applause or appreciation but from something deep within. It comes from the feeling of acceptance of myself and the confidence boost that results from showing up and sharing the joy of dance with others.
To feel good in your own skin is truly a gift and it’s this gift that I want to share with as many women as possible through their participation in dance performance projects. This is also the gift that dance can provide by sharing the way we experience the world, providing a means to communicate beyond language and time.
Through observation and from hearing direct testimoniales from dance students I know the impact belly dance can have on women’s self esteem, confidence and body image. This effect is greatly magnified by the experience of rehearsing together, supporting one another, being part of the creative process, and ultimately showing up as yourself (or as a snowflake!) on stage. Working under the umbrella of a theme injects fantasy, colour and the feeling (expressed by many participants) of being part of something bigger than yourself.
After many successful performance projects based on themes such as the world of cabaret, the harem or the myth of the Phoenix, I turned to the world of colours to direct and produce CHROMA in 2018 with students and dancers from ZeoT Zürich. Over 80 women took part in an explosive burst of colour from ice blue to blood red, absinthe green and pink warrior.
In 2020 I will be directing PARFUM where the fascinating connection between smell and memory will be brought to the stage through dance. Using the structure of Michael Edwards’ ‘Fragrance Wheel’ the performance will move through floral, oriental, woody and fresh notes and choreographers will bring to life the memories evoked by these fragrances. (see below for how you can take part in next year’s performance).
Conclusion
Every snowflake is unique and delicate. But bring those snowflakes together and whether it’s a snowball or an avalanche that snowflake becomes a part of something much bigger and infinitely more powerful.
What’s your favourite smell? Where does it transport you? What hidden memories does it trigger?
Take part in the ZeoT Zürich show 2020 and create a fragrant blend made visible through movement, form and time. Using oriental dance technique in new and unexpected ways, share the excitement of creating, rehearsing and performing together.
PARFUM will be presented on the 20th & 21st June 2020 in Aula Rämibühl Zürich.
Check out our workshops for information about how you can participate. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see updates of the work in progress.
Alia McKenzie-Murdoch is owner and creative director of ZeoT Zürich. A big thanks to Hannelore for sharing her feelings and experience with us and to Lucify for the interview. See the full interview here >> Photos of CHROMA: Janet Schulz