The movement that makes us.

g r oo v e is a solo performance by Soa Ratsifandrihana that draws its inspiration from a number of different dance forms, including the Afindrafindrao of her native Madagascar.

She takes some steps from the Madison, the first choreography she learned which was popularised in the 1960s by Al Brown, an African American singer. She also references Pepito, a popping dancer whose stylised quarter-turns she admires.

In short, g r oo v e takes the form of a collage of references quoted and then transformed.

Part of Dance Reflections by Van Cleef & Arpels Festival

Co-presented by Sadler’s Wells and Dance Reflections by Van Cleef & Arpels

Header image description: A solo performer in a black outfit leans forward slightly, with one hand in a fist and the other flat and facing down, as if demonstrating a horse walking with her hands.

Header image © Lara Gasparotto