DamaeDance: IRMÃ-sister, explores what it takes to truly connect with another person and what that connection reveals about ourselves.
Inspired by the personal experiences of Alice Bonazzi and Sara Marques, the piece investigates the complex emotional landscape of human relationships, balancing conflict and care, vulnerability and strength.
IRMÃ-sister is a physical and emotional dialogue that challenges how women’s bodies and emotions are seen and expressed on stage. Blending elements from capoeira and contact improvisation, the performance develops a dynamic movement language both intricate and athletic, that highlights presence, responsiveness, and trust.
All the partnering work is informed by the idea that female bodies have weight, can sustain weight, but also display vulnerability. More than a reflection on relationships, IRMÃ-sister is a celebration of feminine resilience, interdependence, sisterhood and emotional depth.
Choreography: Alice Bonazzi & Sara Marques
Dancers: Rachel Sullivan & Sara Marques
Music: Original score by Jeph Vanger
Supported by Without Walls and commissioned by Hat Fair and Stockton International Riverside Festival. DamaeDance have been supported by Company Chameleon, who offered mentorship and in-kind support for the development of IRMÃ-sister.
Showing at La Mercè, Barcelona on 24, 27 and 28 September 2025.
Image: Damae Dance – Irmã Sista (photo credit Daniel Phung Photography).
