NZDC set to present ‘Kiss The Sky’

The New Zealand Dance Company (NZDC) will premiere Kiss the Sky this month, with the triple bill opening June 29 at the Bruce Mason Centre for four performances only.

NZDC Artistic Director Shona McCullagh has brought together three international choreographers from Aotearoa, Korea and Australia on the theme of the seasons, the southern sky and time. This triple bill will coincide with the Matariki (Māori New Year) Festival.

In its first commission to an artist from Asia, NZDC has welcomed Korean choreographer/composer Kim Jae Duk. His work Sigan, which means “time”, draws from the twin themes of meditation and attack, featuring a dynamic score featuring traditional Korean instruments within a contemporary composition.

Award-winning choreographer Sue Healey of NZ will present The Seasons Retouched, set to composer Max Richter’s “Recomposed.” Her work touches on images of the seasons and changing weather, combined with a formal architectural approach to the choreography. Richter’s music will be played live by Blackbird Ensemble.

Thirdly, renowned Australian choreographer Stephanie Lake will present If Never Was Now. The work is a surreal hive of buzzing activity reflecting the beauty and brutality of the natural world.

Presented with Auckland Live, Kiss the Sky runs until Saturday, July 1 in Auckland. The season includes special opportunities to connect with NZDC through an engaging “whole whānau” workshop and creative pre- and post-show talks. For more information, visit www.nzdc.org.nz.

Photo used in graphic captured by John McDermott.