“Everyone is still talking about it. It’s had a huge influence and blown people away, redefining the theatre” Tim Brinkman – Director, Hall for Cornwall
“It was an exemplary piece of work in terms of processes and product. It was able to bring people together of all ages and abilities (from complete novices to professionals) in a piece of work that was moving and memorable for the performers and the audience.” Dot Peryer – Director, The Works
Premiered at Camborne Corn Exchange, Duets for Unusual Souls creates an immersive celebratory experience for ballrooms or other social dance venues. It re-interprets ideas of the famous Dance Marathons of the 1930s, during which people competed for prize money in a time of deep recession. Performed by a large cast of over 80 local performers, aged 6 – 80, and a live band Duets for Unusual Souls brings together stories and memories of people in a performative act. Using a set of beautifully detailed suitcases filled with significant personal objects, the performance starts as an intimate meditation of personal memory and identity and moves towards the collective joy of celebration and communal dancing. Duets for Unusual Souls can be re-created and adapted for different settings and different scales, using a combination of members of the original casts and local performers.
This work commenced with bespoke duets (created through out Cornwall) looking at the resilience of dancers in the Dance Marathons of Great Depression. Mothers and daughters, fathers and sons, couples and strangers move together, celebrating connection, rthymn and strength.
The seats were drawn back to use the full auditorium and the audience entered the performance, moving freely.
Vid Rodd and his Jazz Band performed live filling the space with joyous music.
“The opportunity to dance with my child in performance was so special.”
Adam Honeymoon created a warm and inviting lighting design.
Angus Balbernie was the compare keeping the dance marathon on track.
A truly intergenerational cast celebrating connection
An installation, a happening, a unique experience.
Experienced dancers, enthusiasts and those new to dance.
Company warm up together at Hall for Cornwall
Installation at Corn Exchange Camborne
Photography Belinda Whiting
“Truly unique experience that I never thought I could achieve. I loved building my character and filling the suitcase. Thank you, I shall remember this forever.”
Angela Praed Dance Production 