Ahead of Bach Reimagined, a unique collaboration between one of Europe premier dance companies, James Wilton Dance, and internationally renowned cellist Raphael Weinroth Browne, our Student Ambassadors Sreenisha Kanchiraju, Aimee Andreas-Evans, and Millie Hughes interviewed James Wilton about his experiences and inspirations.
What in Bach’s music drew you to it?
I think there’s something scientific or mathematic about his music. It’s like zooming in on a snowflake and seeing the crystals that form its structure.
Bach Reimagined blends classical music with contemporary elements like heavy metal and modern dance. What inspired this bold fusion of styles? And what were the biggest challenges in doing so?
There’s a huge range of things going on within the piece, and I think that comes from Bach and the astronomical amount of music he wrote. We wanted to try and replicate his drive and his ambition.
What drew you to weaving themes of science into the music and dance on stage?
His music is scientific in its approach I think, but he also lived in a time of great innovation and discovery. Whilst Bach was writing some of the greatest music ever written Newton was discovering gravity and splitting light, and so we referenced this within the choreography. Bach’s music was the artistic equivalent of this discovery.
What does dance mean to you?
Pure physical expression and the ability to say something that words can’t.
What do you hope people will feel or take away from the performance?
Hope, inspiration and joy!
What’s been the most rewarding part of bringing Bach Reimagined to life?
Working with our composer Raphael Weinroth Browne. He’s created a score that is really true to Bach, but somehow modern, energising and epic. I’ve never heard or danced to anything like it!
Don’t miss James Wilton Dance: Bach Reimagined at the Northcott Theatre on 4 – 5 Mar. Tickets start from £14, with members, U26, and group discounts available.
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