If you are a Dublin native, you would have heard of the DDF. Short for the Dublin Dance Festival, it’s a programme of events that brings artists and audiences together to create and share exceptional, provocative and relevant dance experiences.
So here’s a little bit about DDF and what you can expect this year.
Each year in May, DDF presents the best Irish and international dance performances in venues throughout the city to a growing and evolving audience. It’s a vital platform for artists and the creation of new work, generating opportunities for artists nationally and internationally through residencies, commissions and partnerships and by encouraging artistic collaboration, experimentation, risk-taking and innovation in dance.
What’s special this year?
This year, the spotlight is on The Race. It’s from acclaimed international choreographer Marc Brew and entwines three of Aesop’s Fables to create a fun, interactive and colourful world of animals, puppets, theatre and movement. It’s a MOVE Commission, co-commissioned by The Ark, Dublin Dance Festival and Arts & Disability Ireland.
Surely, we have all read or heard of Aesop’s Fables while growing up? Remember the Hare and the Tortoise? It’s one of the most famous of Aesop’s Fables, and I reckon most of us would have had it read out to us as children.
You would find that The Race is presented by a cast of disabled and non-disabled dance artists, and all performances have been created to offer an inclusive audience experience. The show is relaxed in nature and welcomes children who are neurodiverse.
Certainly, a performance that isn’t to be missed.
Performances, talks and workshops
Many performances, family shows, showcases, discussions, talks and workshops are lined up for the DDF 2023.
You will find a full schedule of events here. But be certain to buy your tickets, as everything quickly sells out.
If you are intrigued, the lead image (by Julie Artachois) is from a critically acclaimed dance work. The Pretty Things is choreographed by award-winning Canadian choreographer Catherine Gaudet who brings us on a journey from naivety and conformity to liberation and power.
You will find more of such amazing performances at the DDF, so make sure you have the dates in your diary
