Kalamata preparing dance celebration
Kalamata is preparing anew for its annual summertime dance extravaganza. The city’s 11th International Dance Festival, which this year will run July 15 to 24, has once again scheduled performances by prominent figures on the international dance scene, led by renowned Belgian choreographer Anne Teresa de Keersmaeker, in her first visit to Greece, and also includes an appearance by the concept creator of the Athens Olympic opening and closing ceremonies, Dimitris Papaioannou, along with performances by other Greek dance groups. Eclectic lineup Situated in the southern Peloponnese, Kalamata has earned a reputation for hosting quality and interesting dance shows every summer and presenting all different styles that prevail on both the local and international dance scenes. The festival will kick off on July 15 with «Rain,» a dance show by Anne Teresa de Keersmaeker’s company Rosas, with music by Steve Reich. A highly acclaimed choreographer, de Keersmaeker changed the face of Flemish dance from the first time she appeared on stage. The show will be repeated on July 16. Swiss choreographer Anna Huber, a highly unusual and interesting artist of Berlin’s dance scene, will visit Greece for the first time, to present her solo work «Unsichtbarst» on July 16 and 17. On their first visit to Greece as well, Belgian dance company Les Ballets C. de la B. will perform «Bache,» choreographed by Koen Augustijnen, with music by Guy Van Nueten accompanied by singer Steve Dugardin, on July 22 and 23. International appearances will end with promising Australian newcomer choreographer Prue Lang, who will stage «Fiftyfourville,» a 2004 production inspired by Jean-Luc Godard’s 1965 film «Alphaville,» July 21 to 23. Greek participants include Greek-Cypriot newcomer Lia Haraki, founder of the Pelma dance group, who will present solo performance «Eye to I» on July 17, 18 and 20. Upcoming dancers Yiannis Mantafounis and Katerina Skiada will stage «Shadow’s Projection,» accompanied by musician Anastassis Gouliaris, on the same dates, and innovative dance company Sinequanon will stage «Secret Supper» on July 20. The festival will end on July 24 with «Black Box,» where Dimitris Papaioannou will present his thoughts on the structure of the Athens Olympics opening ceremony. As is the case every year, a contemporary dance workshop will take place from July 14-24, led by Jeremy Nelson. The festival will also feature seminars and lectures for dance students and professionals, as well as various happenings around the city. For further information, contact the Kalamata International Dance Center, situated at 6 P. Kaissari, Kalamata, tel 27210.83086/90886.
