Jean Abreu & Naishi Wang: Deciphers
WHAT IS LOST AND GAINED IN TRANSLATION?
A powerful and revelatory duet about communication, connection, and identity by acclaimed choreographers Naishi Wang (Canada/China) and Jean Abreu (UK/Brazil), addressing translation not only as a linguistic act but as an emotional and cultural negotiation.
“At a time when the word immigrant carries so much conflict and tension, it feels like a true gift for us to present Deciphers in a country that is my chosen home and has welcomed multiple generations of immigrants.” – Jean Abreu
A moving, multi-sensory work, Deciphers transforms the stage into a living canvas. Through Chinese Folk Dance, Brazilian movement, spoken word, breath, and ink on paper, Wang and Abreu use the body as a primal tool of expression. The result is a mesmerising journey, potent and emotionally resonant, by two artists international in talent and scope.
Brazilian-born Jean Abreu blends the rhythms of Brazilian dance with cutting-edge contemporary choreography. Since founding Jean Abreu Dance in 2009, his bold works have toured the UK, Europe, China, and Brazil, from the Royal Opera House to São Paulo’s Auditório Ibirapuera. Known for striking collaborations with Gilbert & George, Elisa Bracher, and Topher Campbell, Jean continues to push boundaries, currently creating a new piece with disabled dance artist João Paulo Lima inspired by Derek Jarman’s legacy.
China-born, Toronto-based Naishi Wang fuses martial arts and Chinese Classical and Folk dance into a dynamic contemporary language. After nine years with Toronto Dance Theatre, he launched a thriving career as an independent artist, collaborating internationally with Christoph Winkler and premiering his acclaimed solo Taking Breath in 2018.
Following its World Premiere at the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival in Vancouver, Deciphers toured to Harbourfront, Toronto, MAI Montreal, and National Arts Centre, Ottawa.
Cast and Creatives
Created and performed by
Naishi Wang and Jean Abreu
Lighting Design
Lucie Bazzo
Visual Design
Ivy Wang
Music/Composition
Olesia Onykiienko
Dramaturgy
Guy Cools
Movement Workshop
Alongside Deciphers we are thrilled to present a unique and exciting opportunity to participate in an exclusive free movement workshop led by Jean Abreu and Naishi Wang. Find out more about how to apply here.
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