From November 13th to 16th, the Central Theatre Seville hosts the long-awaited premiere of RITEa show that brings together two of the most innovative artists on the international scene: the Cape Verdean choreographer Marlene Monteiro Freitas and the Sevillian dancer Israel Galvan.
In the universe of contemporary dance it is often said that there are artistic encounters destined to happen, that the pieces fit together naturally, as if fate had marked it. And the one between Marlene Monteiro Freitas and Israel Galván is one of those meetings. The Cape Verdean choreographer and the contemporary flamenco of the Sevillian meet in a proposal that merges what is apparently opposite: the meticulousness and the I disturbTHE precision and the freedomTHE tradition and the avant-garde.
RITEwhich will debut from 13 to 16 November at the Teatro Central in Seville, is the result of this fascinating crossroads. A proposal in which both artists explore the limits of their languages and challenge the boundaries of dance, with a clear search for what unexpected and this visceral. The show, which takes its name from the primordial cry “ri te” (from the Cape Verdean Creole, which could be translated as “laughter”, ”mockery” or ”scream”), is a game of tensions, a constant interaction between two universes that they recognize each other, challenge each other and celebrate each other through the body.
The distinctive character of Monteiro Freitas’ dance is characterized by his ability to mix millimetric precision with expressive overflow. Their movements are mechanical and at the same time profoundly human, oscillating between rigidity and sensuality. For his part, Israel Galván, known for his contemporary and avant-garde flamenco, offers one of the freest and most radical interpretations of the genre, where silence and immobility coexist with the speed and explosiveness of the dance. Together, they try to create a common language that not only speaks of their tradition and culture, but also invites us to reflect on the power of dance as a form of communication.
The stage of the Central Theater becomes the space where both artists meet. face and this hug. With a wall that separates them but at the same time unites them, Monteiro Freitas and Galván weave a conversation that is, at the same time, struggle and seduction. RITE it is a show that is not only a challenge to the conventions of dance, but an invitation to enter the territory of unexpectedto explore the improvisation and the emotion that arises from the genuine encounter between two bodies, two styles, two different worlds.
Conception and dance Marlene Montero Freitas / Israel Galvánvisual design Yannick Fouassier
Sound and technical direction Pedro Leone
Project commissioned by Théâtre de la Ville-Paris – Autumn Festival in Paris
Production PIG / Igalvan Company
visual design Yannick Fouassier
Sound and technical direction Pedro Leone
Project commissioned by Théâtre de la Ville-Paris – Autumn Festival in Paris
Production PIG / Igalvan Company
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Contemporary Dance Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! We are excited to discuss the upcoming premiere of RITE, a groundbreaking collaboration between Cape Verdean choreographer Marlene Monteiro Freitas and Sevillian dancer Israel Galván. Joining us today is dance expert Dr. Sofia Mendoza, who specializes in contemporary dance. Welcome, Dr. Mendoza!
Dr. Mendoza: Thank you! I’m thrilled to be here and to talk about such an exciting event in the world of dance.
Editor: Let’s dive right into it. The collaboration between Monteiro Freitas and Galván seems to be a unique fusion of styles. What stands out to you about their artistic meeting?
Dr. Mendoza: This collaboration is fascinating because it brings together two seemingly opposite worlds—Marlene’s meticulous choreography and Israel’s avant-garde flamenco. It’s like a dialogue between tradition and innovation. Having seen both artists’ work individually, I can already sense how their distinct styles could complement and challenge each other beautifully.
Editor: You mentioned a dialogue. How do you see this dialogue manifesting in their piece RITE?
Dr. Mendoza: RITE is aptly named, as it captures an essence that is both primal and contemporary. The title, derived from the Cape Verdean Creole term for laughter or mockery, suggests a playfulness that can convey deep emotion. I expect to see a constant push and pull between their movements—they will recognize and even provoke each other, creating an atmosphere filled with tension and release that goes beyond mere choreography.
Editor: That sounds incredibly intriguing. The article describes the show as exploring the limits of their languages. Can you explain what that means in a practical sense?
Dr. Mendoza: Certainly! When we talk about “limits,” we’re discussing how far they can push their respective styles. For Marlene, this could mean deconstructing the precision she’s known for and infusing it with more fluidity or emotional rawness. For Israel, it could involve bending the traditional flamenco movements to incorporate more abstract elements. Together, they challenge not just their own artistic identities but also the audience’s expectations of contemporary dance and flamenco.
Editor: You noted that the movements oscillate between rigidity and sensuality. What role does this duality play in contemporary storytelling through dance?
Dr. Mendoza: This duality is essential to creating a visceral experience for the audience. Dance is an emotional language, and by juxtaposing rigidity—the precision of form and technique—with sensuality—the emotional, almost chaotic connection to the body—they engage viewers on multiple levels. It’s not just about watching form; it’s about feeling the story unfold in real time. This constant tension creates dynamic narratives that resonate deeply.
Editor: With the premiere set for November 13th to 16th, how do you think audiences will respond to this collaboration?
Dr. Mendoza: I believe audiences will be captivated by RITE. Given the buzz surrounding both artists and their unique approaches, we can expect everything from exhilaration to introspection. They will witness not only the beauty of the dance but also the deeper commentary on identity, cultural exchange, and the human experience itself. This is what contemporary dance aims to do: provoke thought and evoke feeling through movement.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Mendoza! It sounds like RITE is going to be a transformative experience for both the artists and the audience. We look forward to seeing how their vision unfolds on stage!
Dr. Mendoza: Thank you for having me! I’m eager to see how this incredible collaboration takes shape. It’s a must-see for anyone who appreciates the evolving landscape of dance.