Jenni-Elina von Bagh: A Prologue

Jenni-Elina von Bagh’s solo performance A Prologue explores the relationship of the multi-layered body and the about-to-happen, the unknown. It probes what it feels like to live in this time, how the present confusion and the state of the world are connected to art, dance, our bodies and our senses. What is the moment right before the moment?

A Prologue is a site of dynamic flows that seek release from the habitual patterns of the mind and from reactive behaviours. It surrenders to expressive dimensions, where also laughter is an attractive possibility. In its wider frame of reference it is inspired by philosophical thinking that argues that the power of life permeates life, death, human and non-human.

The performance explores borderlines and gaps, regarding the subject as something constantly changing and transforming, connected to both the present and the past. A Prologue is also a dialogue between two professional identities: that of the performer and that of the choreographer.

In addition to von Bagh, the workgroup consists of scenographer Ingvill Fossheim, lighting designer Ina Niemelä, sound designer Tom Lönnqvist, dramatist Otto Sandqvist and physical assistant Virpi Nieminen. Their collaboration continues from productions such as Posthuman days (2018) and A Life – nomadic melodrama (2017).