The Solar Wheel: How a Folk Ballet can deepen connections with traditions and cultural heritage

Presentation abstract

Abstract

A penchant for storytelling through movement led to my creation of the folk ballet genre in 2019. Originally a vehicle to showcase folklore and tales from the British Isle’s that had not previously been adapted into balletic texts, these ballet’s have diversified in form. Live performances and filmic works have evolved to explore social, environmental and political narratives that speak to the challenges of the land, nature, and cultural heritage. An ambition to break barriers found within ballet’s historic formal structures and systems, drives the objectives of ensuring these folk ballet’s are accessible to all, performed in outdoor spaces in non-traditional settings, creating an immersive and deeply connected experience for the audience.

The Solar Wheel is an original interdisciplinary production, created in four acts that will emerge at the turning point of each season, across twelve months to become a one act work in 2027. This lecture demonstration offers an insight into the research led collaborative creation process drawing from local and national folklore and customs that are followed in celebrating each seasonal solstice and equinox. Visual artist, Jessice Pearce and dance maker, Deborah Ward will share their interdisciplinary approach to making the work and examine the narrative and cultural positioning of the work. A performance of The Autmn Equinox act will be shared to conclude the presentation.