"In the Absence of Light" is an innovative dance work that delves into the essence of movement through the pure experience of the body. Over the course of a week, five dancers immersed themselves in a uniquely transformative process by working in complete darkness. Stripped of visual stimuli and traditional critique, the dancers focused entirely on their physical sensations, internal rhythms, and the spatial dynamics of their own bodies and each other.

This immersive process fostered a deep, intuitive exploration of movement, allowing the dancers to develop a vocabulary based purely on tactile feedback and spatial awareness. The absence of light encouraged a heightened sense of connection and communication among the performers, as they relied on sound, touch, and their internal sense of timing to shape their choreography.

The culminating performance of "In the Absence of Light" presents an evocative and raw depiction of this exploration. The audience is invited to witness a dance that emphasizes the visceral experience of the body, highlighting the nuanced and often unseen intricacies of human movement. Through this innovative approach, the work challenges conventional perspectives on dance, inviting viewers to engage with the performance on a purely sensory level. The result is a profound, meditative experience that underscores the power of the body as both an expressive and experiential medium.

In the Absence of Light - 2019 - Kiama Masonic Hall

Choreographic Facilitator : Opal Russell

Dancers: Saskia Ellis, Gwyneth Esther, Liana Tollardo, Opal Russell, Sienna Hillcoat

Live Classical Guitar Composition: Lucy Rorris

Lighting: Matthew Russell