For the opening of its 2016/17 season, DanceHouse is pleased to announce the Vancouver debut of celebrated Finnish troupe Tero Saarinen Company, which will launch it’s 10th Anniversary season.
Led by dancer-choreographer Tero Saarinen, the company will perform Morphed, an evening length work for seven male dancers. Hailed as a masterpiece of opposing forces and frictions, Saarinen’s choreography tackles themes of change and sensuality in a fresh exploration of masculinity.
Recognized for his multidimensional artistry, Saarinen does not disappoint with Morphed, which brings together powerful movement, stunning visual landscapes and a bold score. Mikki Kunttu’s sets highlight a world constantly on tilt, as the dancers tangle and navigate through a forest of dancing ropes surrounding the stage. The work is performed to three pieces by acclaimed orchestra conductor and composer Esa-Pekka Salonen— Concert étude for solo horn (2000), Foreign Bodies (2001), and Violin Concerto (2009)—each notable for its kinetic quality and innate musical duality. Saarinen’s choreography further expands on these existing musical themes, submerging the audience in a striking world of sensitivity, heroism and all that lies between.
“In Morphed, [Saarinen] casts seven male dancers of varying styles and ages and they are most definitely blokes, not boys, who move with rough-hewn heft, as well as moments of refinement and richness.” – Evening Standard
About Tero Saarinen Company:
Founded in 1996, Tero Saarinen Company has since captivated audiences in over 40 countries and is celebrated as one of Finland’s leading dance troupes. Choreographer Tero Saarinen is known for his unique movement style, bringing together influences ranging from Butoh and martial arts to classical ballet and Western contemporary dance. The company is in permanent residence at Helsinki’s Alexander Theatre.