UP-CLOSE is a dance performance, discussion, and workshop all in one. It has been specially developed to bring dance to young audiences in an accessible way and to stimulate an appetite for dance.
Ages 5+
UP-CLOSE is an energetic dance piece where two strangers meet, connect, and celebrate their new friendship; together they look to the future with hope, optimism, and an appetite for life. Designed for two dancers and a car tyre, blending contemporary and street dance styles with circus skills, and peppered with good humour and raw energy, UP-CLOSE appeals to the liveness of children and ignites our yearning for physical contact.
Following the performance, the creative team facilitates a 25 minute movement workshop and, almost without realising it, children can explore ideas from the show and experience the piece physically.
UP-CLOSE was originally designed for schools, and the piece has been re-worked for touring in Ireland and abroad.
UP-CLOSE was commissioned by Tipperary Dance under The Arts Council Arts Grant Funding and premiered at Tipperary Dance International Festival 2021. With the support of Tipperary County Council, Tipperary Excel Arts Centre and Tigh Roy Ionad Cultúrtha. Additional funding from Baboró Pathways to Production.
Credits:
Choreography by Mónica Muñoz in collaboration with the dancers
Dancers: Cristian Emmanuel Dirocie and Matteusz Szczerek
Additional choreography: Jack Bain
Composition: Julian Jahanpour
Production Manager: Paul Lenihan
Dramaturgical Support: Claire Mullane
School’s Engagement Producer: Sophie Coote (Autumn Tour 2022)
Producer: Michelle Cahill (Autumn Tour 2022)
Video: Tipperary Dance International Festival
Production History:
Number of performances to date: 60
July 2023 IMMA Outdoors. Irish Museum of Modern Arts in Association with Dublin Dance Festival, Dublin
May 2023 SpringMoves Dance Festival, Wexford
February 2023 Five Lamps Arts Festival, Dublin
October 2022 Baboró International Arts Festival for Children
October 2021 Tipperary Dance International Festival Connecting Communities Programme