Watch the trailer for ‘Earth Works’ here

The score of the new performance by choreographer Sergiu Matis is composed of texts written by authors from around the globe about their personal experiences with our existentially threatened environment. These reflections, commissioned for “Earth Works”, are recited, translated and interpreted by five performers. Prompted by words and sentences, images, figures, choreographic spaces and atmospheres emerge through which the performers move: The text carries them through the choreography and the dancers, in turn, carry the words through the performance space. This interdependent movement gives the texts body and voice, oscillating between grief and hope, destruction and resilience. The performers are driven to act, to discover new pathways and give hope to a society that finds itself threatened by a sixth mass extinction event. 

“Earth Works” is a continuation of Sergiu Matis’ long-standing artistic exploration of the climate and biodiversity crisis and the relationship between text and choreography. 

“Earth Works” will premiere at Radialsystem as part of the :LOVE: cooperation between Tanzfabrik Berlin and Radialsystem. With the initiative “Radialsystem ♥ Tanzfabrik”, the two institutions are working together to improve the labour and presentation conditions of dance professionals in Berlin.

An artist talk will take place after the performance on 21 December.

Radialsystem ♥ Tanzfabrik / Tanzfabrik ♥ Radialsystem
Since 2019, Tanzfabrik Berlin and Radialsystem have been presenting artists to a wide audience on Radialsystem’s stages. This collaboration aims to improve the working and presentation conditions for dance artists in Berlin beyond the boundaries of each institution. In addition to enhancing the visibility of their shared platform, it creates an important connection point for local and international artists and scenes. Both institutions equally support the artists with co-production funding, rehearsal spaces, and public relations.

Accessibility
The Radialsystem can be reached by S-Bahn, bus, regional train and long-distance train via Ostbahnhof. The Radialsystem event spaces are accessible. There is an acccessible WC in the entrance area and there are 2 disabled parking spaces. Please register your visit in advance. 

A limited number of beanbags will be available for visitors with physical disabilities during pre-boarding. Pre-boarding and beanbags can be reserved at ticket@tanzfabrik-berlin.de

Content Notes
At one point, bright light is used, and there are frequent rapid changes of light, but without a strobe. In places there is strong bass, loud noises, and loud singing. The performers come into the audience gallery at times and address the audience, but without demanding an interaction.

Concept & Choreography: Sergiu Matis
Performance: Chihiro Araki, Lisa Densem, Moo Kim, Sergiu Matis, Nicola Micallef
Text: Hana Pera Aoake, Rahima Gambo, Priya Jay, Jeanine Leane, Sergiu Matis, Harun Morrison, Leena Valkeapää, Oula A. Valkeapää
Dramaturgy: Mila Pavićević
Composition: Antye Greie-Ripatti (AGF)
Stage & Lighting: Ladislav Zajac
Costume: Chihiro Araki, Lisa Densem, Philip Ingman, Moo Kim, Sergiu Matis, Nicola Micallef
Vocal coach: Jule Flierl
Technology & Sound: Andrea Parolin
Assistance Choreography: Laurie Young
Editorial coordination: Harun Morrison
Production: Anna Chwialkowska, Philip Ingman

A production by Sergiu Matis, in co-production with Teatro Nacional Dona Maria II Lisbon as part of apap - FEMINIST FUTURES, co-funded by the Creative Europe Program of the European Union, PACT Zollverein, Radialsystem and Tanzfabrik Berlin. With the kind support of BUDA (Kortrijk). 

Funded by the Capital Cultural Fund. Sergiu Matis is supported by apap - FEMINIST FUTURES, co-funded by the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union.