Umwelt, Through the Looking Glass (de l'autre côté des miroirs) – Compagnie Maguy Marin
David Mambouch's mesmerising film offers a unique perspective on the renowned 2004 dance masterpiece, Umwelt by French icon Maguy Marin.
This enduring performance is composed of 420 brief scenes depicting fragments of everyday human activities, each just 10 seconds long. Within a surreal landscape of doors and mirrors, nine performers move through these seemingly banal vignettes to create a captivating portrayal of life's relentless struggle. As the world they inhabit teeters towards chaos, we bear witness to our own constant battle to exist within the "Umwelt" – the world that surrounds us.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, a meticulously choreographed dance unfolds with exacting precision and focus. In this structured, individualistic environment self-reliance reigns supreme. Each dancer carries out their tasks flawlessly, from managing props to quick costume changes, to ensure a seamless presentation to the audience.
Remarkably, amidst this complexity, the dancers demonstrate outstanding teamwork, emphasising that collective effort is essential for the wellbeing of all. This film is a fascinating exploration of life's intricacies from the viewpoints of both the participant and the spectator.
Available On Demand as part of DDF Digital 2023
22 Nov – 3 Dec 2023
€6 single film, or book all 4 DDF Digital 2023 films for €15
Book Online: dublindancefestival.ie
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Concept & Choreography: Maguy Marin
Featuring: Ulises Alvarez, Kaïs Chouibi, Chandra Grangean, Louise Mariotte, Lise Messina, Isabelle Missal, Paul Pedebideau, Rolando Rocha, Ennio Sammarco
Director: David Mambouch
Cinematography: Pierre Grange
Camera Operators: Pierre Grange, David Mambouch, Pascaline Manachère
Equipment: Coralie Verdier
Sound Engineer: Philippe Vincent
Data Manager: Pascaline Manachère
Colour Grading: Pierre Grange, David Mambouch
Editing & Mixing: David Mambouch
Production Manager: Laure Delavier
Produced by: Maguy Marin Company
Co-produced by: Lux - Scène nationale de Valence Lux
The film was shot à La Comédie de Saint-Etienne – CDN in May 2022