Following their sold-out show KAYA at Brighton Festival in 2018, Ceyda Tanc Dance return to Brighton Festival in 2023 with a new piece KIZLAR.
In KIZLAR, an all-female dance company draws upon the virtuoso movements of male Turkish dancers to create a visually stunning dance work. A celebration of what it means to be female, it is an aesthetically driven exploration of femininity and masculinity, strength and vulnerability.
Brighton-based choreographer and artistic director Ceyda Tanc takes us Behind the Scenes of this dynamic dance work.
Where did the idea or inspiration for KIZLAR come from?
KIZLAR celebrates women and explores what it means to be female in today’s society. With my new perspective as a mother to a baby girl, I have been drawing on the experiences of women of diverse ages & ethnicities, to shape the vision for the work.
How would you describe KIZLAR in three words?
Aesthetic, strong, sensual
‘An overriding theme throughout all the works is a sense of ritual and ceremony, as well as this idea of community.’
What do you hope people will take away from KIZLAR after they have experienced it?
I aim for my work to be accessible for all and hope that the audience enjoy a stimulating and inspiring evening of contemporary dance. My work seeks to challenge traditional gender representation in dance, and address contemporary and cultural issues relating to dance, gender and womanhood. By highlighting themes of gender representation and cultural integration, my wider aim is that people will relate to human issues explored, find links to their own experiences of culture and identity, and gain an increased awareness of cultural influences within their communities.
Are you looking forward to being a part of Brighton Festival 2023?
Having had an incredible experience premiering KAYA at the Theatre Royal in Brighton Festival 2018, we are delighted to be returning to showcase the development of our work over the past 5 years and reconnecting with our local audiences.
KIZLAR takes place at Theatre Royal Brighton on 16 May.
Click here to find out more and to buy your tickets.