According to the Latvian Dance Information Centre, the contemporary dance solo “The Story of a Body” (Kāda ķermeņa stāsts), choreographed and performed by Ukrainian artist Viktoriia Khoroshylova, will be staged at the Valmiera Culture Centre on September 6 at 4:00 PM. The performance explores the self-discovery journey of a citizen, woman, and mother, examining the layered identity of the body when the personal becomes political. The event forms part of the “Dance House” (Dejas māja) program, which brings contemporary dance events beyond the “Kurtuve” stage in Valmiera.
Philosophical Roots and International Recognition
According to the production notes, the choreography draws direct inspiration from French philosophers Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari and their concept of the “Body without Organs,” representing an unorganized, free potential that resists imposed societal structures. The work premiered in Kyiv, Ukraine, in November 2024. According to Latvian Dance Information Centre head and Dance House curator Inta Balode, the production is featured on the recommended works list of the European dance platform “Aerowaves.” Balode noted that bringing the work to Valmiera serves as a reminder that artists continue creating despite wartime challenges, offering audiences a chance to share space with a creator experiencing peaceful skies.
Immersive Set Design and Creative Team
The staging utilizes an immersive environment where audience members sit directly inside the installation. The sound design features music by Vitaliy Fesenko, along with contributions from the groups “The Cooking Potatoes” and Rayo. Following the performance, a public discussion with the artist and the local Ukrainian community in Valmiera will be held free of charge.
Did you know? Choreographer Viktoriia Khoroshylova co-founded the “P.L.O.T.” performance group at the Odessa Museum of Modern Art in 2017. Her artistic method bridges phenomenological analysis with visual art and physical theater, backed by international residencies in Sweden, Denmark, and Romania.
Interactive Lectures and Educational Events
According to the Valmiera Municipality, the performance is supplemented by interactive lectures titled "What is / What does contemporary dance do?" funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the project "KURTUVE: Contemporary Culture for Everyone." The first discussion takes place on September 6 at 1:00 PM at the Valmiera Culture Centre prior to the show. A second lecture is scheduled for September 23 at 5:00 PM at the Ramata Parish Library in collaboration with Ramata storytellers and the Mazsalaca Youth Center.
Ticketing and Financial Supporters
Tickets are available in limited quantities across “Biļešu paradīze” box offices and online. The guest performance is supported by the “Aerowaves” platform with co-funding from the European Commission and the Ministry of Culture, alongside the State Culture Capital Foundation (VKKF) and the Valmiera Culture Centre. Project funding is provided by the European Regional Development Fund.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is “The Story of a Body” being performed?
The performance takes place on September 6 at 4:00 PM at the Valmiera Culture Centre.
Who choreographed the piece?
The performance is choreographed and performed by Ukrainian artist Viktoriia Khoroshylova.
Are tickets still available?
Tickets are available in limited quantities through “Biļešu paradīze” outlets and their ticketing website.
Who is leading the accompanying lectures?
Choreographer and researcher Ģirts Dubults is leading the interactive lectures on contemporary dance in Valmiera and Ramata.
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