'Movements Ignite' delves into unspeakable expression

Exploring movement synchronized with multimedia effects, the Korea National Contemporary Dance company is preparing to present its latest modern dance production, "Movements Ignite."

The upcoming production consists of two pieces, "Hurt" and "KAYA-Unspeakable," both of which delve into the meaning of life and the extent to which humans use the body as a tool rather than a means of expression.

"Hurt" and "KAYA-Unspeakable" were choreographed by guest choreographers Noh Jung-sik and Kim Sung-yong, respectively, and will open Friday.

A scene from the Korea National Contemporary Dance Company's latest production of "KAYA-Unspeakable." (Korea National Contemporary Dance Company)

As is the norm for modern and contemporary dance pieces, "Movements Ignite" leaves much of its interpretation to the imagination. In Thai, the term "Kaya" refers to one's body, and often deals with East Asian bodies and discusses how they are different from the ones of the West.

The piece is undoubtedly all over the place and at times may seem to transition with the most random of segues. With dancers moving to the sounds of white noise in calculous manners while gently pushing an empty bowl across the stage before the atmosphere takes a sudden 180-degree turn to something almost horror-flick-like, Kim attempts to portray the varied aspects of the human body.

Although it may appear at times as though some of the dancers are having an epileptic seizure on the stage in their dark portrayal of struggles with their own bodies, the powerful meanings behind each movement linger.

"Hurt," on the other hand, expresses the notions behind memory and the concept of emotional injury, be it conscious or not. From current societal anguish to past historical hardships, Noh takes a bold approach with his contemporary dance movements to experiment with the extent to which bodies are affected by tragedy and suffering. Through each dancer's body language, the idea of pain as a visual medium can be felt throughout.

The upcoming production of "Movements Ignite" will be staged for three days from Nov. 14-16 at Seoul Arts Center's CJ Towol Theater. Ticket prices range from 20,000 won to 40,000 won. For more information, visit www.kncdc.kr.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)<ⓒKoreaHerald(www.koreaherald.com)무단전재 및 재배포 금지>