Posted on 28 Aug 2020

Award-winning Birmingham-based choreographer Rosie Kay is returning to the stage at Birmingham Repertory Theatre on Saturday 21 November, to perform the premiere of her new solo work, Absolute Solo II, as part of a triple bill.

Twenty-one years on from her first ever solo show, Absolute Solo, and five years since last appearing on stage herself, Kay returns with works that look backwards and forwards at her personal experience as a female in dance.

Performed to a socially distanced audience of around 70, Absolute Solo II will also be live-streamed to audiences at home. The triple bill also includes an archive film of the award-winning Patisserie (1999) and Kay’s first public performance of Artemis Clown, originally commissioned by Eliot Smith Dance Company.

Commenting, Rosie said: “It's very exciting to be preparing to go back onto the stage again, after five years of 'retirement'. I feel very different as a dancer but incredibly at home performing again, and I can't wait for the thrill of being with a live audience. Lockdown has been such an odd time, but it gave me the opportunity to really dig deeply into why I need to dance, how dance has affected my life, and why dancing people are so important to communicate complex ideas about humanity.

"My new solo is both personal and universal, it explores women in dance and in life, and I think people will connect with what I have to say.”

The REP’s Artistic Director, Sean Foley added: “We are thrilled to be collaborating with Rosie Kay Dance Company to present this very special one-off performance. Following recently announced sell-out performances from Birmingham Royal Ballet in October, this performance of three solo dance works continues our commitment to bringing artistically ambitious theatre in all its forms to Birmingham audiences."

In line with current government regulations, The REP has taken a number of carefully managed steps and precautions to help audiences feel safe and enjoy their chosen performance. The theatre has introduced a series of new safety measures, including socially distanced seating, hand-sanitising stations, temperature checks and additional cleaning. More information can be found at birmingham-rep.co.uk.

Rosie Kay’s Absolute Solo II comes to Birmingham Repertory Theatre on Saturday 21 November, 8pm. Tickets are now on sale. Book online at birmingham-rep.co.uk.