A UK tour has been launched by audience favourite, Dance Consortium and is heading to Newcastle Theatre Royal for two days this March presenting São Paulo dance company.

São Paulo Dance Company is at the forefront of the South American contemporary dance scene and the company will showcase the work of three choreographers whose inspiration is deeply rooted in Latin American and Spanish Culture, when they head to the North East in March.

São Paulo Dance Company director Inês Bogéa said: “In 1994, I had the pleasure to tour British theatres as a dancer with Grupo Corpo. It was a very intense time, full of art and exchange of experiences. 30 years later, as São Paulo Dance Company’s artistic director, I am thrilled to be back, with the company performing in wonderful theatres around the UK and in Ireland. I thank Dance Consortium and everyone who is making this tour possible. We hope our art opens an expressive, intense, and enjoyable channel of communication with the audiences that await us.”

The Northern Echo: Sao Paulo Dance Company performing the Anthem section of the tour

The showcase will be split into three sections. The first of the works is an emotionally charged piece named Anthem. Created in 2019 the piece reflects on life cycles and collective identities, inspired by songs that become hymns or anthems for individuals and groups, through generations or across nations. Choreographer Goyo Montero collaborates with Owen Belton who provides an uplifting score.

The Northern Echo: Sao Paulo Dance Company performing the Gnawa section of the tour

The second of the works Gnawa, was created by Nacho Duato in 2005 and restaged for São Paulo Dance Company in 2009, the piece draws on the Mediterranean colours and flavours of Valencia. This piece is accompanied by a North African score written by seven composers - Hassan Hakmoun, Adam Rudolph, Juan Alberto Arteche, Javier Paxariño, Rabih Abou-Khalil, Velez and Kusur e Sarkissian.

The Northern Echo: Sao Paulo Dance Company performing the Agora section of the tour

The third of the works is Agora by Brazillian choreographer Cassi Abranches and is a colourful finale. Exploring time and rhythm within movement the piece is accompanied by a score by Sebastian Piracés that mixes drums, Afro-Brazillian percussion and rock music and vocals.

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The company produces artistic performances that represent works from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. From classical and modern masterpieces to contemporary styles, each piece is curated by nationally and internationally recognised choreographers.

Dance Consortium is a group of 19 large-scale theatres that aim to bring the best international dance to stages across the UK and Ireland. The group has become an audience favourite at Newcastle Theatre Royal, with memorable past productions including Dada Masilo’s The Sacrifice, Nederlands Dans Theater 2 and most recently Ailey 2.

São Paulo Dance Company visits Newcastle Theatre Royal Tuesday March 5 and Wednesday March 6, 2024.

Tickets can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.