Interpreter
August 2025 - March 2026
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Songs Without Words is an anthology of 20 solos choreographed by Davida Monk, which she is now setting for performance with many different interpreters. In Davida’s words:
"The central conceit of [Songs Without Words] remains the presentation of the body and its movement as the expressive equivalent of song. However, where I originally imagined a single work of considerable length, SWW is now a creative project of undetermined duration, the target of which is to amass an anthology of 15 to 20 short two-to-ten-minute pieces. By committing to making each of these works as distinct as it is complete and necessary, I am finding growth in my choreographic and physical expression and, importantly, discovering the dances that, at this point in my maturity, I am compelled to do.”
Literary, musical and movement research shaped each piece, paired with critical exchange and collaborative design elements.
I am currently rehearsing SWW 5, referred to as Enso, which is a Japanese Zen Buddhist symbol of a hand-drawn circle representing enlightenment, strength, elegance, and the universe, often made with a single, fluid brushstroke in sumi-e (ink wash painting) to express the mind's state. My experience embodying this work has been rich with discovery in the pursuit of precision; both spatially and in movement shaping and quality, and in presence; a practice of restraining from any sense of preparation or anticipation, but endeavouring to discover the piece as it unfolds moment by moment.
After working with Davida on this solo, rehearsal Director Helen Husk describes it this way: “I was struck with the elegance of the performer and the simplicity in both the abstract movement, and circular structure of the dance. I sensed the necessity of restraint in the performer; of being present without anticipation of what is to come next. Every movement expression- a foot shimmy, an arm stroke, or a sequence of asymmetrical shapes in the body -asked for clear articulation without any pretence. A natural unfolding was taking place through time and space and; within the presence of the performer.”