What happens when one of humanity’s oldest obsessions becomes the foundation for a contemporary dance work? For award-winning Naarm choreographer Trà Mi Dinh, the answer is 7 Dances for 7 People, a hypnotic new production exploring the mysterious symbolism and rhythms of the number seven.
Presented by Darebin Arts Speakeasy as part of Darebin FUSE Festival’s Open Access program, the work brings together seven exceptional dancers in a performance built around precision, repetition, endurance and ritual.
Dinh, whose recent commissions include work with Sydney Dance Company and Lucy Guerin Inc, has a personal connection to the number seven. Having grown up in a Buddhist household where seven held particular significance, and with it being her favourite number, she transforms that fascination into a physical exploration of rhythm, symbolism and sensation.
The result moves between majestic imagery, machine-like precision and bursts of frenetic energy, with increasingly intricate patterns drawing audiences into an otherworldly atmosphere.
Composer Tilman Robinson’s entrancing electro-acoustic score uses a 7/8 time signature, creating an unusual rhythmic structure for the dancers to work within. Rachel Lee’s lighting shifts between revealing and concealing the performers, while Geoffrey Watson’s costumes and set add another layer to the constantly transforming visual world.
Rather than asking audiences to decode its meaning, 7 Dances for 7 People is designed to be experienced physically and emotionally. It is less about understanding the number seven and more about surrendering to its patterns, repetitions and possibilities.
Dinh was awarded the prestigious Keir Choreographic Award in 2022 and is also an artist in residence at Lucy Guerin Inc.
7 Dances for 7 People runs from September 9 to 19 at Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, with opening night on September 10.
