Episode 2. Dance archeology. Working with the repertory of Rosas

Rosas, the dance company of Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker, has developed an extensive and diverse repertoire over the years. This means that Rosas provides a rich case study to explore questions of repertory. We can examine the various roles in the repertory field: from original to new cast member, from rehearsal director to repertory teacher. We can unpack the different approaches to transmission used in restagings and recreations, and in schools. Most of all, by talking to those busy in the studio and on the stage, we can hear what it’s like to dig into the layers of time and the different iterations of multiple performers. We hear what it takes to keep dance repertoire vibrant, evening after evening; to dance other people’s roles, yet always being yourself. 

Laura Maria Poletti, Clinton Stringer and Jacob Storer generously contemplate their approaches to repertory by sharing their stories and perspectives - from joys to complexities, questions to solutions.

Sound featured in the episode: Stage recordings from performances by Rosas/Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker, recorded by Olivia Rochette and Gerard-Jan Claes: Bartók / Beethoven / Schönberg. Music: Grosse Fuge, op.133, by Ludwig van Beethoven, played live by Ictus — Drumming. Music:Drumming, bySteve Reich, played live by Ictus — The Song — Come Out, by Steve Reich (Nonesuch Records) — Theme music composed by Inne Eysermans.

Voices of: Laura Maria Poletti, Clinton Stringer, Jacob Storer

Interviews and narration: Tessa Hall