AFINES

February 28 / 8:00h pm

60 minutes

Adults

James Joyce once said that within the particular lies the universal.

In a time of such division, witnessing an act of union is extraordinary.
Afines celebrates the idea that beyond our lived experiences and unique identities, we share much in common.

Two bodies speaking a single language.
Two bodies inhabiting the same space and time.
Two bodies sharing the same universe.

Afines expresses how bodies intertwine and fit together, becoming one —moments in which they orbit each other, attracting and distancing themselves, refining their connections to the limit, developing an intense relationship that freezes and burns, forgets and remembers, and ultimately finds in creativity a choice —the only choice.

As Kae Tempest says: “Creativity fosters connection. It brings us together and helps us cultivate a greater awareness of ourselves.”

Marcat Dance is the artistic home of Mario Bermúdez, the multi-award-winning Spanish choreographer, and American dancer Catherine Coury, co-director of the company. Their base is located in the rural surroundings of Vilches, Jaén, where the company develops each creation through creativity and movement, without forgetting another fundamental pillar: the training they provide around the world. Marcat Dance believes in the power of imagination, in committing to creativity, and in the continuous exploration of the body’s dynamics. The group connects with the human spirit and finds inspiration in diverse cultures, rituals, and landscapes from around the globe.

Since its founding in 2016, the company has performed internationally and shared its teachings throughout the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. They have appeared at festivals such as Madrid en Danza, Anfitrión, and Itálica in Spain, as well as Jacob’s Pillow (USA), Vanguard Body (China), Yokohama Collection (Japan), and the Choreography Center La Licorera in Cali (Colombia), among others.

Their numerous productions have been recognized with awards such as “Best Show of the Year” (Lorca Awards 2022, PAD Awards 2021 and 2020), “Best Original Music” (PAD Awards 2020), “Best Male and Female Performance” (Lorca Awards 2022, PAD Awards 2021), “Best Choreography” (Escenarios de Sevilla Awards 2019), and they were finalists in three categories at the MAX Awards 2020. They have also received first prize in choreography at four international choreography competitions (2016–2019).

In addition to his creations with Marcat Dance, Mario Bermúdez has been invited as a guest choreographer by other major international companies such as the National Dance Company of Spain, Scapino Ballet Rotterdam, Hung Dance (Taiwan), Nuovo Balletto di Toscana, and the National Dance Company of Wales.