bang bang

‘BANG BANG is torture,’ explains Manuel Roque with a wink. In any case, it's a case of onomatopoeia. The title already suggests the constant pounding of feet in choreographed motifs, whose relentless repetition requires not only athleticism but also intense focus. The Montreal-based choreographer even compares the dancers to ‘kamikaze pilots’. He originally performed this ‘personal and therefore universal ritual’ alone on stage. His performance’s subtle intensity led to BANG BANG immediately being voted production of the year in Quebec, Canada. Now, two dancers expend themselves in it, rocking themselves into a state between gravity and weightlessness, martyrdom and ecstasy. Soon, the body becomes the sole measure of all things and reveals its full resilience, while the characters transcend themselves and the human condition. Since the intensity of the moment and fragility within the challenge of fatigue and precision is experienced in the solidarity of a duo, the music of Chopin and Debussy creates even more vulnerability – coupled with beauty. BANG BANG reflects Roque's extensive experience the most prominent choreographers in Montreal, one of the world's most exciting dance scenes. As its current rising star, he constantly pushes the boundaries of dance and the body, making an artistic and social statement with each of his works. The poetic BANG BANG philosophically questions the meaning and absurdity of our existence.