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HUG

dance intervention

HUG is a dance intervention in public space created by Liza Šimenc and Anja Mejač, combining choreographed score with the real moment of meeting in an embrace. It continues the exploration from their two-year authorial series titled ALLO.

This dance intervention takes place in various locations, and this time, it is set in a public space. The event is exploratory in nature, with the dancers remaining silent during the encounter and later writing down their impressions individually. They arrange to meet, share a glance, a smile, and a hug – the connecting point between a real greeting and everything that follows. Their bodies become sensitive to their surroundings and to touch.

A dance duet emerges, existing independently with the purpose of exploring the relationship with oneself, the other, and the environment. The choreographers are interested in the idea of dance as a consequence, arising from sensory stimuli. They also examine the impacts of movement in space, including the spatial shifts of objects that remain even after the dancers have left.

By performing in public spaces, they address some issues of contemporary society, such as the chronic lack of time, empathy, and connection with one's own psycho-physical state. They emphasize the importance of pausing and listening – what do I need at this moment? What do you need? Sometimes it’s necessary to forget the rhythms and systems that dictate our lives and instead focus on the authenticity and vitality given to us, which is so fragile in its vulnerability.

Project ALLO, research Objem

dance, choreography: Anja Mejač, Liza Šimenc

music for dance video: Luka Uršič

video: Črt Potočnik

photography: Nina Pernat

communication: Tea Pristolič

production: Skladišče 172

coorganisation: Cirkulacija 2

media partner: Parada plesa

financal contribution in the year 2024: Mestna občina Ljubljana, S-5 naložbe

project supported by: TAM-TAM

2024,