Episode #5: Choreographer Deborah Colker On Returning to NY

In this exclusive interview for Brazilian Talk, choreographer Deborah Colker tells host Rodrigo Brandao about her experience working, directing and choreographing for Cirque Du Soleil show and why she has chosen Four by Four as he return to New York City. Ms Colker will be performing 4 Por 4 (Four by Four) at New York’s City Center from October 22 to the 25th.

A Picture from Knot, by Deborah Colker.

Combining physically daring feats with visually exciting designs, Deborah Colker’s work is the result of her willingness to experiment with different mediums. The first Brazilian to win London’s prestigious Olivier Award, the internationally acclaimed choreographer uses modern dance to challenge notions of space and gravity. Colker also has the distinction of being the first woman to write, direct, and choreograph a Cirque du Soleil show. “OVO” is currently playing to sold out audiences in Montreal.

“4 POR 4”
New York’s City Center
West 55th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
October 22-25, 2009

One of the fundamental concepts of Deborah’s work, which is present in 4 POR 4 is the dialog between space and movement. In 4 POR 4, Deborah Colker brings the world of visual arts to contemporary dance. Cantos (Corners), based on Cildo Meireles; Mesa (Table), Chelpa Ferro; Povinho (Some People), Victor Arruda; and Vasos (Vases), Gringo Cardia, are choreographies that bring images to life. The company explores the concepts of restraint, gentleness and, limitation. Music is the other vertex in the artistic love triangle formed in 4 POR 4. The performance also offers Deborah Colker herself on the piano, interpreting a Mozart sonata for two ballerinas in the beginning of Vasos. Though not a professional player, Colker’s passion for the work and for the piano is evident.

Deborah Colker