Self Portrait

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New Zealand Fringe Festival 2009: 10-13 February, Bats Theatre, Wellington
Auckland Fringe Festival 2009: 7-8 March, City Art Rooms, Auckland
Dunedin Fringe Festival 2009: 31 March-3 April, Allen Hall, Dunedin
Tickets: $16 / $12 / $10


Award-winning New Zealand choreographers and a film maker each create solo works inspired by Rita Angus’ self portraits. How they are influenced by Angus is entirely up to them. Watch the resulting idiosyncrasy explode and move you. You may discover something of yourself!

A moving testament to one of New Zealand’s most cherished artistic icons, choreographers Julia Milsom (2007 Female Contemporary Dancer of the year & Tup Lang winner), Katie Burton (Best Dance NZ Fringe 2007) and Paul Young (2006 & 2007 Male Contemporary Dancer of the year) respond to the beautiful works of Rita Angus through dance. The works are intertwined with the outstanding film work of Rick Harvie (Belmont Productions Ltd) and original soundscapes by Andrew McMillan, Josh Tilsley and Sally Nicholas.

Self Portrait is a new show and will complete seasons at three Fringe Festival’s around New Zealand; Wellington, Auckland and Dunedin.

Self-Portrait was inspired by Gaylene Preston’s documentary, Lovely Rita – A Painter’s Life. Rita Angus is one of our most cherished and recognized artists and was particularly prolific in regards to self-portraiture. She was intriguing, inherently ‘kiwi’ and considered herself married to her work.

Self-Portrait is not only an exploration of Rita Angus herself, it is also alluding to our perceptions of ourselves: as New Zealanders, and as artists. These themes: what it is to be a New Zealander, an artist and what we reveal to one another are all areas of exploration for Self Portrait.

Hamish Keith: ‘Art is not about who or what we are, it is about who we think we are. The continuous little dance between reality and perception is what makes works of art so engaging and so immediate.’

Self-Portrait pays homage to Rita Angus and the way she chose to live her life, as well as giving the audience an inspiring night of moving contemporary dance, film and music.

ENDS

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