The life’s journey of a man – from birth through to death – was laid out on stage at the Manoel Theatre this weekend with ŻfinMalta’s new performance, called Home.
The work, choreographed by artistic director Mavin Khoo, explores the notion of identity, with ŻfinMalta Dance Ensemble members weaving a cinematic narrative through the protagonist’s voice.
Accompanied by thoughts of previous existences, he follows the cyclic journey, experiencing birth, childhood, love, tragedy and death.
The audience is meanwhile asked to reconsider the notion of home as a structural dwelling location.
Niels Plotard, who is taking care of the sound design, composition and arrangement of Home, this year joined ŻfinMalta as creative resident artist.
Mr Plotard is working with the artistic director to develop elements of film, photography and sound for the company. He will continue to dance in some works within the repertoire and assist the artistic director, support and co-lead the apprenticeship programme and lead outreach initiatives.
Home is one of ŻfinMalta’s two new productions that it is premiering this year. The second production will be a triple bill, Tlieta (3), featuring three choreographies by female choreographers (Rachel Calleja, Francesca Tranter and Athanasia Kanellopoulou), accompanied by three female composers (Jess Rymer, Veronique Vella and Konstantina Polychronopoulou).
Tlieta (3) will premiere in July.
This year is a very busy one for the national dance company, which will be taking part in a number of foreign engagements, including in Palermo, France and a possible eastern European tour.
Supported by the Arts Council Malta and the Gozo Ministry, among others, a performance of Home is being presented at the Astra Theatre in Gozo on Saturday. Tickets can be bought by sending an e-mail to bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt, calling 2124 6389 or online at www.teatrumanoel.com.mt.