B.DANCE

How can a classic of Anglo-Saxon children’s literature be transformed into a choreographic piece that is both universal and perfectly original? The answer lies in this dreamlike ballet, born in 2021 from the collaboration between the Taiwanese B.Dance company and its inspired choreographer Po-Cheng Tsai, with the Tanz Lucerner Theatre directed by Kathleen McNurney. Upon sound designer Rockid Lee’s New Age score, classical ballet, contemporary movements, hip-hop and jazz combine with tai chi, martial arts, kung fu and even Chinese folk dance. The scenography itself is a journey, evoking a labyrinth of mirrors as well as black-ink calligraphy, or psychedelic video projections by Po-Chih Chang. A host of particularly sumptuous costumes add to the enchantment while, like the heroine, the viewer is led from surprise to surprise in this universe bathed in changing lights, unlike anything they have ever seen before. To their impeccable technical mastery, the dancers add a hint of mystery, transforming this perfectly crafted choreography into a real exploration of the human soul. Both theatrical and visual, psychological and very physical, ALICE is a veritable success and a fascinating discovery – not to be missed!

Po-cheng Tsai, B. Dance

After graduating from Taipei University of the Arts in 2009, Po-Cheng Tsai created the B.Dance company in 2014, developing a unique style which combines the movements of Asian tradition with a Western classical and contemporary vocabulary. Recognised in many international competitions, his pieces are represented worldwide, including in France at the Avignon Festival. He has also choreographed for several foreign companies, including Gauthier Dance and La Veronal. In 2018, he was named choreographer of the year by Tanz magazine.