An in-depth dance performance about (you and me) to Us (we as a society) & All (we as part of everything that exists around us, above and beyond us).
The opera Dido and Aeneas, written by the English composer Henry Purcell around 1688, is a milestone in both music history and Western culture. The work, inspired by books V and VI from Virgil’s Aeneas, describes the tragic love affair between the two mythical characters. However, the symbolism extends much further than that.

universal love
In his interpretation, Samir Calixto focuses on our constant desire for our other half. He also zooms in on the curious paradox of the constant state of loneliness that accompanies this. From this perspective, Purcell’s epic work confronts our narrow view of romantic love with a broader, universal love. That love lies in mutual freedom and in understanding our place in a greater whole – a theme that recurs more often in Calixto’s oeuvre.

An in-depth quest
DIDO AENEAS US & ALL is the transformation of Dido and Æneas (you and me) to Us (we as a society) & All (we as part of everything that exists around us, above and beyond us). In this new performance, Calixto defines accepting one’s loneliness as a personal journey to become a more conscious person. Two dancers – Calixto herself and dancer Erika Poletto – will undertake this physical journey. The intensity of the dance will reveal many shades of what we define as love, in a profound search for its ultimate meaning.

credits
Concept, choreography, set and costumes: Samir Calixto
Performers: Samir Calixto & Erika Poletto
Lighting design: Pavla Beranovà
Music: Dido and Aeneas by Henry Purcell
DIDO AENEAS US & ALL is a co-production of Matter Affects (NL), Scenario Pubblico (IT),
Schouwburg De Lawei (NL)/ Steptext Dance Project (DE) and Dansverkstæðið (IS)

Source: PLT Website