Elixir Festival: A Celebration of Dance and Age at Sadler’s Wells

This April, Sadler’s Wells Theatre is set to host the Elixir Festival, a unique event that promises to redefine the boundaries of dance and ageing. Over two captivating weeks, from April 10th to April 20th, attendees will be treated to a rich tapestry of performances, workshops, talks, and films. Here are five highlights of the festival that underscore its commitment to celebrating the beauty and depth of dance across the ages.

1. A Diverse Line-up of International Talents

The Elixir Festival showcases a staggering array of talent from around the globe, featuring artists from 12 different countries including Senegal, France, Canada, and more. The festival opens with a triple bill in the Sadler’s Wells Theatre, featuring the London premiere of common ground[s], a poignant duet between Germaine Acogny and Malou Airaudo. This rich diversity in performances highlights the festival’s international spirit and its celebration of dance’s universal appeal across different cultures and generations.

2. Innovative Performances and Premieres

From the world premiere of White Hare by Ben Duke, a unique trio involving two dancers and a tortoise, to Louise Lecavalier’s mesmerizing solo Blue, the festival doesn’t shy away from pushing creative boundaries. Each performance, whether it’s the exploration of age with the Dance On Ensemble or the intergenerational duet in Mohamed Toukabri’s The Power (of) The Fragile, offers a fresh perspective on the art of dance and its capacity to convey profound messages about human experience and emotion.

3. Engaging Workshops and Artist Talks

Elixir Festival is not just about watching dance; it’s about participation and learning. With artist-led workshops for older professional and non-professional dancers, attendees have the chance to engage directly with dance practices. Highlights include a workshop on modern African dance with Germaine Acogny and a session on improvised partnering with Susan Kempster. Furthermore, free talks by choreographers such as Christopher Matthews and Aakash Odedra offer insights into their artistic processes and visions, making the festival a comprehensive educational experience as well.

4. A Focus on Community and Inclusion

The festival extends beyond Sadler’s Wells Theatre to involve local communities in north and east London. The Get Into Dance Festival and the Posh Club event underscore Elixir Festival’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. By inviting local community groups to perform and by emphasizing the importance of social connectivity and intergenerational volunteering, Elixir Festival fosters a sense of belonging and collective joy in the power of dance.

5. Digital Stage and Cinema Club

In an effort to make the festival accessible to a wider audience, Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage presents the Elixir Festival Cinema Club. This free showcase of films by internationally acclaimed artists offers another dimension to the festival, allowing audiences to explore dance through the medium of film. It’s an excellent opportunity for those unable to attend live performances to still engage with the festival’s themes and celebrate the art of dance.

Conclusion

Elixir Festival at Sadler’s Wells is more than just a dance event; it’s a dynamic celebration of life, creativity, and the enduring power of dance to connect and inspire people of all ages. Through its diverse lineup of performances, workshops, and community events, the festival challenges perceptions around dance and ageing, offering a space where the beauty of movement knows no age limit. Whether you’re a lifelong dance enthusiast or simply curious about the transformative power of dance, Elixir Festival promises an enriching experience filled with imagination, innovation, and inclusivity.