Vertical Influences

No glitters or kitsch, but contemporary choreography on the ice! Le Patin Libre is a group of cutting edge ice skaters from Montreal. Far from traditional figure-skating competitions and commercial ice shows, they have developed a new style. With their stunning technique, they explore the performative and choreographic possibilities of 'gliding' on ice. Since 2014 the company has toured festivals and arts centres worldwide. Their iconic creation Vertical Influences will now be presented in Belgium for the first time by STUK at the Ijsbaan in Leuven.

In Infuences, the first part of this double-bill, the five skaters explore interpersonal relationships and the ties between an individual and its group. In Vertical, the audience is seated on the surface of the ice and intensely experiences a skating that moves a lot of air.... literally.

At a dizzying pace, with their urban dance attitude and unbridled pleasure in speed, Le Patin Libre transforms the ice rink into an arena for choreographic adventure.

Dress warmly: coat, hat and gloves are warmly recommended.

choreography Alexandre Hamel, Pascale Jodoin, Samory Ba, Taylor Dilley, Jasmin Boivin (Le Patin Libre) music Jasmin Boivin dramaturg Ruth Little lighting designer Lucy Carter costume designer Jenn Pocobene produced by Le Patin Libre coproduction Dance Umbrella Festival (London, UK), the National Arts Centre (Ottawa, Canada), Théâtre de la Ville (Paris, France) research support Jerwood Project at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre (London, UK) production support Conseil des Arts et Lettres du Québec, Conseil des Arts du Canada, Conseil des Arts de Montréal