Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui . Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Genève . Tonkünstler-Orchester

How do we live together? What determines our coexistence and who makes the decisions? Together with the Tonkünstler-Orchester, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui examines the concept of democracy and questions its contradictions – the balance between freedom and power, between belonging and exclusion.

Democracy in its ideal form gives everyone space and a voice. In practice, however, not all voices are heard. In his latest choreography for the Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Genève, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui depicts a society caught between power and powerlessness. Inspired by Greek philosophy, he also confronts the darker sides of democratic systems: exclusion and powerlessness. With his usual dance precision and in artistic dialogue with composer Dimitris Skyllas and sculptor Antony Gormley, accompanied by the Tonkünstler-Orchester, he creates a choreographic landscape in which compromises and conflicts form the basis of a constantly changing community.

Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui is Artistic Director of the Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Genève. His cross-genre works, which span contemporary dance, theatre, ballet, opera and music, are often characterised by international collaborations. He most recently appeared at the Festspielhaus St. Pölten in the 2024/2025 season with Ihsane for the Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Genève.

A co-production of the Eastman Dance Company and the Festspielhaus St. Pölten.

CAST & CREDITS

Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui choreography, Antony Gormley stage design, Jan-Jan Van Essche costumes, Dimitris Skyllas composition, Fabiana Piccioli lighting, Alkanna Graeca vocals, Igor Cardellini dramaturgy, Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Genève dance, Tonkünstler Orchester Niederösterreich orchestra, Margaryta Grynyvetska musical direction