BLKDOG von Botis Seva | Far From The Norm (UK)

In the Olivier Award-winning hip-hop performance "BLKDOG," internationally acclaimed British choreographer Botis Seva, together with his company "Far From The Norm," explores the complex relationship between self-awareness and self-destruction. In the Olivier Award-winning hip-hop performance "BLKDOG," internationally acclaimed British choreographer Botis Seva, together with his company "Far From The Norm," explores the complex connection between self-awareness and self-destruction. Existential questions are raised regarding repression, violence, and early trauma: a beautiful yet stark examination of the challenges facing a young generation in a world that seems not to be made for them. On stage, an impressive composition unfolds, featuring emotionally charged hip-hop choreography, dark, driving music that mirrors the characters’ inner worlds, personal texts by Botis Seva himself and his company members, and a fascinating lighting design that shifts between fog and disillusionment. The dancers are on an intense quest for coping strategies and express the deeply human need for acceptance. "BLKDOG" transcends cultural boundaries, appeals to a global audience of diverse backgrounds, and expresses a profound humanity that one cannot—and does not want to—escape. How do we come to terms with difficult childhood memories, with traumatic experiences in adulthood, and with the connections between them? How do we find peace? Botis Seva is a groundbreaking choreographic voice rooted in hip-hop dance theater. The British artist’s work springs from real life and draws on his own stories, as well as those of the people around him, while incorporating techniques from film, literature, art, and other dance languages to continually evolve his approach to creativity and the stage. Outside of conventional educational paths, Seva developed a desire to become a choreographer at the age of 15. At 19, he founded his hip-hop dance theater company “Far From The Norm” with friends in Dagenham, London. In his early years, the “Breakin’ Convention” workshops at Sadler’s Wells Theatre shaped his self-confidence and artistic style. Soon his work could be found on stages, in public venues, and in dance film circles. He has received numerous awards, including a grant from the Bonnie Bird Choreography Fund, the Marion North Mentoring Award (2015), the prize from the Copenhagen International Choreography Competition (2016), Choreography 30 Hannover (2016), and the Olivier Award for “BLKDOG” (2019) as Best New Dance Production, and was nominated for several other awards. Seva has also been involved in various films and has created commissioned works for the stage for various companies and theaters, including the Scottish Dance Theatre, Rupert Goold, the National Youth Dance Company, Wayne McGregor and Robin Friend, Battersea Arts Centre/Suri Krishnamma, Acosta Dance, and NDT.