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NZ choreographer Ann Dewey's new dance work Shine Lady started as a three month project researching movement abstracted from plate tectonics and microbiology, then progressed to its current themes of female divine presence.

NZ choreographer Ann Dewey's new dance work Shine Lady started as a three month project researching movement abstracted from plate tectonics and microbiology, then progressed to its current themes of female divine presence.

Bringing to life the striking images of female divinity, including the Madonna and the Hindu goddess’ Kali and Pavarti, Shine Lady traces and explores the cycles of human life. Full of strange surprises, humour and pathos this new work creates an other worldly experience designed to entrance and inspire.

Combining the talents of artist Mike Petre, composer Charlotte Rose and performers Liz Kirk, Julie van Renen and Liana Yew -  Shine Lady is at Tapac, Western Springs, from May 25-29.

During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?

Morning and late at night.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?

Eclectic and quirky.

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?

Working in the studio with the dancers and thinking about the visual design.

How does your environment affect your work?

I work a lot from the patterns and forms in nature, so therefore I live in the country, surrounded by nature.  I find creating in cities difficult.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?

Both – because to make interesting coherent work both are important.

What's your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in the creative industries?

Be innovative, adaptable and creatively solve problems.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?

Shine Lady, because we had such a long research and development project.

Who or what has inspired you recently?

Banksy (UK graffiti artist) and my dancers, Liz Kirk, Julie Van Renen and Liana Yew, they are astonishing.

Tell us a bit about your background.

I trained at the National Ballet School of Canada and at Rambert Academy in London. I have performed with many professional companies in The U.K and New Zealand, namely Janet Smith and Dancers, DV8 Physical Theatre, Douglas Wright Dance company and Michael Parmenter’s Commotion Company. I have also taught at Ballet Rambert, Rosas, Black Grace Dance Company and at the Royal New Zealand Ballet.  I started my own dance company Spinning Sun in 2000.

Tell us a bit about the show (inception to conception)

It started as a 3 month research project (CNZ funded) researching movement abstracted from plate tectonics and microbiology.  It then progressed to current themes of female divine presence.

The current phase started in early April reworking, editing and putting set/lights, costumes (production elements) together.

The show appeals to a wide audience, it is funny, moving and beautiful.

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?

Art historian or visual artist or a very different profession – lawn bowler.

What place is always with you, wherever you go?

My uncle’s farm in the UK, I spent many happy summers there.

What's the best way to listen to music, and why?

At home, lights off, alone, because then I can completely concentrate on the music with no distraction.

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?

If there was enough of all three - a tent – if not, an art installation.

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?

Breathe.

What's great about today?

Being alive

What’s your big idea for 2011?

To hijack sporting events with guerrilla art and try to start a campaign to make the London 2012 Olympic opening ceremony work in a $0 (or £0) budget and use the money saved on changing the lives of UK children.

Further information:

Shine Lady  – presented by Spinning Sun

Tapac
100 Motions Rd, Western Springs

May 25th - 29st at 8:00pm

Tickets $ 30 & $22(subject to service fees), Bookings: 09 845 0295 or www.tapac.org.nz
Enquiries: venue@tapac.org.nz