Zino Schat’s latest work, Whispering a Prayer, is a mesmerising excursion into a world brimming with mysticism, beauty, and a touch of absurdity. Partnering with Japanese visual artist Daijiro Hama, Schat has created a performance that combines contemporary dance, striking visuals, and spiritual symbolism into a surreal experience.
The piece features three dancers – Giulio Hoxhallari, Alice De Maio, and Nagga Giona Baldina – who move with an effortless grace one moment and then switch to an intense, pulse-pounding rhythm the next with practiced precision.
What really stands out in this piece is the visual artistry brought by Hama. Drawing from his Japanese roots and the Shinto faith, he uses the Mitsudomoe symbol, which represents protection and balance, to add a rich layer to the performance. Hama’s black paint strokes of birds, trees, and people on a large white screen deepen the storytelling, making the performance not just a dance but an interactive art piece.
The blend of beauty and harshness in the performance mirrors the paradoxes of real life, where awe can swiftly turn into challenge. The dancers don’t just perform; they convey emotions and tell stories through their movements, reflecting the complexity of the world Schat and Hama have envisioned. Their interactions highlight themes of understanding and connection amidst a world that often feels divided.
In today’s polarized climate, Whispering a Prayer feels incredibly relevant. It’s a call for empathy and dialogue, pushing for a shared sense of humanity. This collaboration between Fractal Collective, Korzo, and NDT is visually stunning and emotionally engaging, leaving audiences with a mix of wonder and deep reflection. Eva Lakeman 13th September 2024
