What you will!

Eden Dance Project!

There was definitely some influence of Pina Bausch’s work present as the idea of de-centralization is something that shone through the piece. Having a large number of dancers in the space with no central character or clear ‘front’ meant that the audience have a decision as to what they see in the space and what they chose to ignore.

  Eden took us on a literal journey. Half way through the piece the dancers donned big furry coats and lead the audience out side. The audience moving with the dancers brings awareness to the blurring of audience space and dancer space. The viewer now has their own decisions to make as to when and where they move to and in turn why?       

    

  Showing art in public space can be challenging as you cannot account for public reaction. Many on lookers shouted at the dancers and they must then make a choice as to how to embrace this and how controlled. Eden chose to ignore these comments and carry on in a professional manner but I wonder if this is the right choice. Site specific work is to involve the whole site so do the public count as part of that environment or are they, like the dancers, an intruder and therefore do not count.

  Some choreographers do not want to portray a specific meaning and this is a prime example. The use of props and variety of site alongside an abstract movement vocabulary meant that this was far from to the point minimalism and often became clouded with imagery. This promoted a curiosity from the viewer as the meaning is often unclear and your clarity with seeking meaning is questioned.

  Therefore each audience member takes from the piece what they wish and the ‘free to roam’ aspect ensures that everyone has a different experience selecting to stand or see what they will. Eden successfully pushes audience boundaries and seeks to engage them physically in new and exciting ways.