William Forsythe has crafted a distinctive language in dance, blending geometric abstraction with expressive movement. As one of the most influential of contemporary choreographers, and after several festival appearances, Forsythe has recently embarked on collaborative explorations with his dancers, examining how contemporary dance interacts with other forms such as hip-hop and folk traditions. Beneath these abstracted movements lies a powerful tension: a fusion of styles and influences that simmer like magma within a volcano.

Returning to the festival, Forsythe presents a new piece created with Rauf Yasit, nicknamed “RubberLegz” for his astonishing ability to contort his body into unimaginable shapes and positions. Alongside six dancers, they delve into the roots of folk dance, hip-hop, and ballet, crafting a powerful yet delicate performance where movement becomes a language able to connect dancers from different walks of life.

Invited by the festival, this mesmerising choreography is presented for the first time in a public space, free and accessible to all. It becomes not only a celebration of the festival’s 30th anniversary but also an ode to the potential of dance as a collective narrative that, like the cityscape, unites distinct traditions into a moment of togetherness.