Since the globalization of Japanese Butoh dance in the 1970s, it has expanded into various forms such as cultural assimilation, spiritual cultivation and performative exorcism. For Choy Ka Fai, Butoh represents “a rebellion against western dance culture and a search for a new form of choreographic expressions designed for the Asian body.” The artist describes Butoh as “essentially an attitude” and is interested in it as a form of revolt and a way to question our present realities.
Unbearable Darkness investigates the heritage of Japanese Butoh, inquiring into its relevance and potential. The research traces the life and possible afterlives of one of the founders of Butoh – Tatsumi Hijikata. In his outrageous pursuit Choy went to great lengths, even interviewing Hijikata’s spirit through an itako (Japanese shaman) and inviting him to collaborate in the creation of the piece.
Unbearable Darkness proposes a cinematic and paranormal dance experience. What is humanly impossible, yet easy for a ghost? Can we speculate on a post-human choreographic future that transcends beyond the worlds of the spiritual, the paranormal and virtuality?
Interview
“‘Unbearable Darkness’, the closing performance of the SPRING Utrecht performance festival, is the product of a – to say the least – unique collaboration. Choy Ka Fai created the choreography together with the spirit of butoh legend Tatsumi Hijikata.” Read the full interview here.
Review
In Theaterkrant Neil van der Linden wrote about Unbearable Darkness: “Choy ka fai confuses audiences with collaboration with late butō legend”. Read the full review here.
Topic Talk
Choy Ka Fai is taking part in the Topic Talk Ownership & )De)colonial practices on May 31 from 15:30 tot 16:30 in Theater Kikker.
