GDIF 2023 BROCHURE - ACTS OF HOPE

25 AUG

10 SEP

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

ACTS OF

25 August

Desmond Tutu

Hope is a unifying language: a human capacity for imagination and dreams that can really make a difference. Across the festival you’ll find stunning events and productions which speak about hope; from Woman Life Freedom, which invites us to stand in solidarity with the women of Iran; to ATC’s magnificent new production, The Architect, which offers a life-affirming theatrical journey infused with the experiences of Black Londoners across the three decades since the murder of Stephen Lawrence.

This year GDIF takes place against a background of tough times. In response we’ve adopted the theme “Acts of Hope”, to address a real need for uplifting moments of celebration, wonder and togetherness.

An icon of hope for Londoners, St Paul’s Cathedral, will prove the incomparable setting for Resurgam, an awesome fusion of aerial dance and architecture from the American company BANDALOOP, whilst the

HOPE “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness”

FREE EVERYW 1

Photo: Thomas Cavanagh

10 September 2023

need for active, change-making hope to address global warming and rising ocean levels, is given urgent voice in Sliding Slope, from the Dutch company Vloeistof, in Royal Docks.

We want GDIF to be open to everyone and so this year we’re very proud that the disability-led organisation Attitude is Everything, has awarded GDIF Platinum status for access. To mark this landmark, we’ve invited artist Caroline Cardus to bring her disability arts protest piece, The Way Ahead, to the festival as a call to courage, power and hope for disabled people everywhere.

GDIF events are well known for transforming familiar public spaces into creative playgrounds; places where

festival.org @GDIFestival

you can attend for free with friends and family, and experience the sheer joy of free outdoor arts. Sustaining events like these is a massive challenge, particularly in the current economic climate and so we’re very grateful to our funders and sponsors who make it possible each year.

With free outdoor arts, audiences should always be at the very heart, so now it’s over to you to play your part and experience the spirit of GDIF 2023 - you’re in for a treat.

Bradley Hemmings MBE Artistic Director

ART WHERE

2

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

HOW TO USE THIS BROCHURE

There is an exciting mix of events for you to discover at GDIF 2023.

Use this brochure to explore the full programme and plan your visit.

Greenwich Fair and Dancing City maps and schedules on pages 37 and 41 will help you plan your routes and get the most out of these events.

GDIF 2023 events happen in unexpected public spaces that are sometimes difficult to find. Download the what3words App in your app store and use the w3w words on each event page to plan your travel routes.

Inclusivity and accessibility are at the heart of our programme, so each event page has Access and What To Expect icons as shown below. Flip to page 44 for more information on access at GDIF 2023.

GDIF EVENTS ARE FREE AND UNTICKETED, JUST SHOW UP Almost all the events in this brochure are FREE to attend and almost all do not require a ticket – just show up.

When you arrive, our front of house team will be on hand to welcome you and answer any questions you might have.

The Architect (p29) is the only GDIF 2023 event which requires you to book a ticket to attend. Tickets are £12 but a limited number of FREE tickets are available to Royal Borough of Greenwich residents. Royal Borough of Greenwich residents can also get a £2 discount on remaining tickets using a One Card.

Disabled audience members can book a companion ticket at no extra cost.

Tickets are available on our website: festival.org/gdif-2023 or contact us at boxoffice@festival.org.

ACCESS KEY

WHAT TO EXPECT

BSL Interpreted

Join in

Captioned

On the move

Audio Described

Great for kids

Easy Read

Speech free

Touch Tour

3

25 August

Photo: Loomaland

TT

Sensory spectacle

10 September 2023

6 8 13 15 17

festival.org @GDIFestival

GDIF 2023 OPEN LINES

GREENWICH FAIR

Fun for all ages in Greenwich town cente WOMAN, LIFE, FREEDOM! ANCIENT FUTURES

ON YOUR DOORSTEP

19 21 23 25 27 29

Free events in your local community RESURGAM CYGNUS SLIDING SLOPE PAN // CATWALK THE ARCHITECT ROZÉO

31

DANCING CITY

37 43 44 45

A weekend of dance in Canary Wharf

GDIF INFO

Maps and Schedules Your Visit Access at GDIF Thanks

4

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

5 Photo: Marc Chaillou

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

OPEN LINES CIE BASINGA

FRANCE (UK PREMIERE)

FRI 25 AUG 7PM (35 MINS)

LOCATION: General Gordon Square, Woolwich, SE18 6AB w3w.co/cable.senses.popped FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

One woman. One high wire.

This heart-stopping spectacle is performed by internationally renowned tight-rope walker Tatiana-Mosio Bongonga. With the help of twelve extraordinary people drawn from the local community, she will make an astonishing crossing, opening GDIF 2023 with an act of fearless optimism.

Find out more about Woolwich Lates

bit.ly/GDIF-Woolwich-Lates

Weaving precise balance with live music and epic outdoor aerial acrobatics, this unmissable one-night-only event celebrates the importance of hope through mutual support. #GDIF2023 Live AD & BSL: 7PM

Open Lines at GDIF 2023 is supported by Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals, Mayor of London’s Woolwich Night Time Enterprise Zone, Berkeley Group and Arts Council England.

6

GREENWICH FAIR Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

1-6.30PM SATURDAY 26 AUGUST

7 Photo: David Levene

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

Family-friendly street theatre, circus, dance and installations take over the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, Cutty Sark Gardens and Greenwich Park in GDIF’s much loved festival within a festival.

All shows are FREE and unticketed – just show up.

See pages 37 to 40 to plan your visit. #GDIF2023

8

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival Photo: Oliver Crawford

THE AIR BETWEEN US

Photo: Floyd C Konde

ECHOES WITHIN THE EARTH

CHLOE LOFTUS & RODNEY BELL

CHRIS PAVIA & STOP GAP DANCE

1.00PM + 5.30PM GEN WOLFE STATUE,GREENWICH PARK

2.00PM + 4.30PM ST MARY’S GATE, GREENWICH PARK

This spectacular dance performance spirals into the air against the panoramic cityscape of London at the top of Greenwich Park hill, in an empowering celebration of disability equality and connection. 20 mins LIVE AD: 1PM

Following a call from deep below the earth, two lost travellers embark on a journey through the sights and sounds of nature, in a performance created by pioneering, learning disabled choreographer, Chris Pavia. 20 mins BSL & AD: ALL

Supported by The Royal Parks, Greenwich Park, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Supported by Greenwich Park, The Royal Parks, Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

NEW ZEALAND

UK

Photo: Dan Martin

ROLL MODEL

SIMPLE CYPHER UK

9

25 August

Photo: Sarah Vanheuverzwijn

EXIT

CIRCUMSTANCES FLANDERS

1.00PM + 4.50PM MONUMENT GARDENS, ORNC

2.35PM + 5.35PM KING CHARLES COURTYARD, ORNC

A feel-good, family-friendly fusion of hip hop moves and contemporary circus, featuring a thrilling mix of breakin’, popping, litefeet, tricking, cyr wheeling, juggling and acrobatics. 35 mins AD: 4.50PM

In this must-see UK premiere, four performers navigate revolving walls and floating doors, in an exciting circus production, exploring the frenetic challenges of everyday life.

55 mins AD: 5.35pm

Co-commissioned by GDIF (FESTIVAL.ORG) and supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Supported by the Ministry of Culture in Flanders, Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

festival.org @GDIFestival

11 September 2023

ANIMALTRONIEK

GREGARIOUS

EXHOOT

COMPANY SOON

CATALONIA / SWEDEN

Photo: Marta Llana

THE NETHERLANDS

Photo: Exhoot

1.00PM + 4.30PM CUTTY SARK GARDENS

2.30PM-5.30PM (DURATIONAL) CUTTY SARK GARDENS

Two friends battle to win in this playful and sweaty blend of contemporary circus and competitive sport featuring thrilling acrobatics, comedy, Chinese pole and teeterboard. 50 mins

Get up close and personal with these extraordinary robotic creatures, who bring their unique personalities and behaviour to the UK for the first time.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Photo: Guixot De 8

Photo: Lanser Photo: StadWim Nieuwport

LES PATINEURS 15ft6

THE SCRIBBLE OF IMAGINATION

FLANDERS

GUIXOT DE 8 CATALONIA

2PM + 5.30PM CUTTY SARK GARDENS

1.30-6.30PM (DURATIONAL) MONUMENT GARDENS, ORNC

Last seen in 2021 with their funfilled show, “League and Legend ”, 15ft6 are back with a spectacular, feel good performance on roller skates. 20 mins BSL: 5.30PM

This fun-filled, sculptural playground celebrates the endless potential of the imagination with an array of interactive games created from recycled materials.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

10

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

Photo: Lee Baxter

Photo: Photo:Trigger CREDIT REQUIRED

FAMILY CATWALK EXTRAVAGANZA

TEA BREAK

UK

UK

GHETTO FABULOUS

25 August

TRIGGER

1PM + 3.35PM KING CHARLES LAWN, ORNC

2.35PM + 4.45PM CUTTY SARK GARDENS

Fashion, dance and lip syncing come together in this interactive celebration of self-expression for the whole family. Dress your finest, learn the moves and take to the floor!

35 mins BSL: 1PM + 3.55PM

Sip your tea and take a journey through the history and rituals of tea making.

Presented from a hand painted Tuk Tuk, this immersive show is framed by Greenwich’s world-famous tea clipper, the Cutty Sark. 45 mins BSL: 2.35PM

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals, Without Walls and Arts Council England.

Supported by Without Walls, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Photo: Mark Dawson

FUSSY FOODIES

JUST MORE PRODUCTIONS UK

Photo: Mind the Gap

BIRDIE

MIND THE GAP UK

1.45PM + 4.15PM KING CHARLES LAWN, ORNC

1.00PM + 3.30PM RIVERSIDE,CUTTY SARK GDNS

Are you hungry for music, roots, and culture? If so, then meet ‘Messy Mama T’ who presides over an exciting new street theatre game show exploring how food really does define cultural identity. 30 mins

Featuring a company of professional actors with learning disabilities, this thought-provoking family show, tells an accessible and moving story about climate change. 45 mins

BSL: ALL

11

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals, Without Walls and Arts Council England.

DIGITAL AD

Supported by Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England Produced and commissioned by FESTIVAL.ORG, Brighton Festival, Hatfair and Without Walls

11 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

A WOODLAND WAKE FOR MIDSUMMER

THE WAY AHEAD CAROLINE CARDUS UK

Photo: Wim Lanser

JULIE MCNAMARA Photo: Sorcha Bridge

UK

1.PM-6.30PM (DURATIONAL) GREENWICH PARK & ORNC

1.40PM, 3.15PM + 4.50PM ST MARY’S GATE,GREENWICH PARK

This celebrated disability protest artwork will be shown alongside 10 new signs, created for this year’s GDIF, calling to courage, power and hope for disabled people in the UK.

Step into a woven, woodland wake to remember, mourn and celebrate.

Ritual words of love, songs and sounds combine with the scent of herbs under a canopy of trees in a timely and beautiful theatre offering. 20 mins BSL & AD: ALL

Supported by The Royal Parks, Greenwich Park, the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Supported by The Royal Parks, Greenwich Park, the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

THIS WOVEN O OLIVER MACDONALD UK

1PM-6.30PM ST MARY’S GATE, GREENWICH PARK

MORE TO ENJOY IN GREENWICH PARK THIS WOVEN O 27, 28 AUG

1PM-6.30PM

THE WAY AHEAD 27, 28 AUG

1PM-6.30PM Part sculptural installation, part theatre arena, enter a magical circular sanctuary, woven entirely from willow and created by disabled artist Oliver McDonald, as a space for connecting with nature and experiencing performance.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals, The Royal Parks, Greenwich Park and Arts Council England.

A WOODLAND WAKE FOR MIDSUMMER FREE INVITATION TO JOIN IN

Activities inspired by the themes of the production 27, 28 AUG 1PM, 2.30PM + 4PM

12

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

13 Image: @shabloolim

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

WOMAN, LIFE, FREEDOM!

AMEENA HAMID PRODUCTIONS UK (UK PREMIERE)

SAT 26 AUG 8pm (30 MINS)

LOCATION: Stratford Park, Stratford, E15 4PT w3w.co/united.rich.seated FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

“Woman, Life, Freedom!” has become the rallying roar of Iran’s protest movement following the death of Mahsa Amini almost a year ago.

Created by Iranian artists, this stirring production reveals the colour, warmth and vitality of Iranian culture, for which a courageous young generation are currently fighting.

Unearthing the extraordinary music and voices of women, which, in Iran cannot be heard freely, this is street theatre at its most powerful and impactful. #GDIF2023 LIVE AD: 8PM | contains haze

‘One of the industry’s most exciting talents’ THE STAGE ON AMEENA HAMID

Woman, Life, Freedom! at GDIF 2023 is supported by Newham Council and Arts Council England.

14

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

15 Photo: Creativepowerr

25 August

festival.org @GDIFestival

10 September 2023

ANCIENT FUTURES UPSWING & UNLIMITED THEATRE UK (LONDON PREMIERE)

SUN 27 & MON 28 AUG 2PM + 6.30PM (30 MINS) LOCATION: The Moorings, Thamesmead w3w.co/rooms.gladiators.vocal FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

TT

The Afrinauts, a crew of curious visitors from another world, touch down in Thamesmead, inviting audiences to join a spectacular party featuring dance, circus and sound system culture.

With a score by local grime artist Afrikan Boy and created in collaboration with Quantum poet Oneness Sankara, this ritual celebration combines West African folklore, fantasy and science fiction, to imagine inspiring and inclusive futures.

As part of your visit, look out for street art from leading aerosol and airbrush artist, Carleen de Sozer, which has been inspired by our Afrinaut visitors #GDIF2023 BSL, AD, CAP: MON 28 6.30pm | TT: 6pm Loud music and haze

‘Telling a

story through contemporary circus is a feat attempted by many, but achieved by regrettably few.

Upswing makes it look easy’ THE STAGE

Ancient Futures at GDIF is supported by Peabody, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England. Ancient Futures is co-produced by Unlimited Theatre & Upswing with support from Without Walls. Co-commissioned by LEEDS 2023 FESTIVAL.ORG & GDIF, Brighton Festival, Stockton International Riverside Festival. Ancient Futures has also been supported by Coventry City Council & Peabody.

Co-commissioned by City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council for BD:Festival. Creation supported by 101 Outdoor Arts using public funding by Arts Council England. The R&D for Ancient Futures was supported by the Blueprint R&D Investment Fund.

16

ON YOUR Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

25 August

You don’t have to go far to get the most of GDIF. It’s coming to a local park, basketball court or playground near you.

ELTHAM SUN 27 AUG

PASSEY PLACE w3w.co/ladder.pasta.shakes

FUSSY FOODIES JUST MORE PRODUCTIONS

1PM + 4.30PM

UK

ANIMALTRONIEK EXOOT

1.30PM-4.30PM

NETHERLANDS

Photo: Mark Dawson

Meet ‘Messy Mama T’ as she hosts an exciting new, street theatre game-show, exploring how food defines cultural identity. Then get up close with some extraordinary robotic creatures, as they bring their unique personalities to Eltham.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

ABBEY WOOD THU 31 AUG

ABBEY WOOD PARK PLAYGROUND w3w.co/basis.trace.life

ROLL MODEL

SIMPLE CYPHER

1PM + 5.30PM

UK

A feel-good, family-friendly fusion of hip hop moves and contemporary circus, featuring a thrilling mix of breaking, popping, litefeet, tricking, cyr wheeling, juggling and acrobatics.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Photo: Dan Martin

17

DOORSTEP 11 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

The best of free, family friendly, Hip Hop, theatre, circus, dance and street arts, on your doorstep. All events are FREE and unticketed – just show up. #GDIF2023

DEPTFORD MON 28 AUG

TWINKLE PARK w3w.co/normal.ample.starts

EXIT

CIRCUMSTANCES

1PM + 4PM

FLANDERS

THE SCRIBBLE OF IMAGINATION

2PM-5PM

GUIXOT DE 8 CATALUNYA

Four performers navigate revolving walls and floating doors, in a virtuosic circus production.

Then get stuck into some serious family fun in a sculptural playground featuring an array of interactive games.

Photo: Karin Jonkers

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

GLYNDON SAT 2 SEP

GLYNDON ESTATE BASKETBALL COURT w3w.co/stars.shirt.enable

BREATHE

IMPACT DANCE

1PM + 4PM

UK

This timely and exhilarating piece of hip hop dance theatre unpacks a compelling story about the environment and the air we breathe. Presented by one of the UK’s leading youth dance companies.

Supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

Photo: Impact Dance

18

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

19 Photo: James Adamson

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

RESURGAM BANDALOOP

USA (UK PREMIERE)

THU 31 AUG, FRI 1 & 2 SEP 6.15PM 20 MINS LOCATION: St Paul’s Cathedral, Southside, EC4M 8AD w3w.co/tamed.beats.hangs FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

Look up in wonder, as one of the world’s most extraordinary vertical dance companies present this breathtaking performance on the iconic façade of Wren’s masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral.

An enduring symbol of hope for Londoners for more than 300 years, artistic director Melecio Estrella has taken inspiration from the inscription Resurgam (I shall rise), carved onto the south portico of the cathedral, to create this awe-inspiring performance, which explores what it takes to be optimistic in challenging times. #GDIF2023

‘Defying gravity and confounding the imagination’ THE NEW YORK TIMES

LIVE AD: THU 31 AUG 6.15PM

Resurgam is supported by Destination City, a City of London Corporation initative as part of its Bartholomew Fair programme and Arts Council England.

20

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

21 Photo: Vincent Mosch

25 August

festival.org @GDIFestival

10 September 2023

CYGNUS LOOMALAND

GERMANY (LONDON PREMIERE)

THU 31 AUG – SUN 3 SEP 8.15PM – 11PM (DURATIONAL) LOCATION: Royal Victoria Dock, Royal Docks, E16 1AH w3w.co/tides.stream.when FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

TT

Absorbing and atmospheric, CYGNUS is a poetic performance on water in which 12 illuminated life-size swans come together for a mysterious nightly dance, against the backdrop of East London.

Weaving references to sustainability, robotics and romanticism, this spectacular light and sound installation will utterly transform the waters of Royal Victoria Dock with a wash of colour and ambient music.

CYGNUS is a durational installation, turn up at any time and stay for as long as you like.

Performed in London for the first time at GDIF 2023. #GDIF2023 Touch Tour: Sat 2 7.30PM

DOCKSIDE WEEKEND

CYGNUS and Sliding Slope take place in Royal Victoria Dock, performances have been timed so you can enjoy both events as part of your visit to Royal Docks

Cygnus at GDIF 2023 is supported by The Royal Docks Team and Arts Council England.

22

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

23 Photo: Ben Neinhuis

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

SLIDING SLOPE VLOEISTOF

NETHERLANDS (UK PREMIERE)

SAT 2 & SUN 3 SEP 1.30PM & 6.45PM (45 MINS) LOCATION: Royal Victoria Dock, E15 1FA w3w.co/inform.edges.cherry FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

Four people fight for survival on the rooftop of a submerged house.

Inspired by the North Sea Flood of 1953, this urgent and timely performance brings a devastating historical disaster up to date in the face of rising sea water levels and the destructive effects of global warming.

Presented at one of London’s most iconic water-spaces, this production gives urgent voice to the need for change, as the climate change clock continues to count down. #GDIF2023 BSL, LIVE AD, CAP: SAT 2 SEP 6.45PM

Sliding Slope at GDIF 2023 is supported

by The Royal Docks Team and Arts Council England.

DOCKSIDE WEEKEND

CYGNUS and Sliding Slope take place in Royal Victoria Dock, performances have been timed so you can enjoy both events as part of your visit to Royal Docks

24

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

25 Photo: Jostijin Ligtvoet

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

PAN // CATWALK ZWERMERS

NETHERLANDS, (UK PREMIERE)

WED 6, THU 7, SAT 9, SUN 10 SEP 1.30PM, 4.00PM (40 MINS) LOCATION: Canada Place, Canary Wharf Estate, E14 5AJ. Level -1, FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

Two performers, one catwalk and a never-ending row of outfits.

From a worn-out denim jacket to an extravagant glitter dress, our clothes are an expression of who we are, want to be, and sometimes have to be.

Through a bold fusion of fashion, choreography, live music and theatre, this thought-provoking performance, challenges the urge to label or judge others based on how they appear, revealing instead a mind-opening celebration of fluidity and self-expression. #GDIF2023 AD: SUN 10 SEP 4PM TT: SUN 10 SEP 3.45PM Pan // Catwalk at GDIF is supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England.

26

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

27 Artwork: Emilie Chen

25 August

festival.org @GDIFestival

10 September 2023

THE ARCHITECT ACTORS TOURING COMPANY UK (WORLD PREMIERE)

WED 6 – SUN 10 SEP 6.30PM + 8.30PM (60 MINS) 2.30PM MATINEES, SAT + SUN LOCATION: Secret South East London location £12 TICKET

FREE TICKETS FOR ROYAL BOROUGH OF GREENWICH RESIDENTS

£10 TICKETS FOR GREENWICH ONE CARDHOLDERS

Board a London bus for this life-affirming celebration of Black lives.

Conceived by Mojisola Adebayo, Roy Williams and Matthew Xia, and created with a collective of leading Black artists including Bola Agbaje, Dexter Flanders, Vanessa Macauley and XANA, this new production asks how we create a blueprint for the future, three decades after the senseless murder of Stephen Lawrence.

This immersive theatrical experience on a London bus, is a journey through SouthEast London revealing possibilities and dreams of more hopeful futures.

Co-commisioned and co-produced by GDIF and Actors Touring Company in support of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation. #GDIF2023 The Architect is supported by Royal Greenwich Festivals, Arts Council England, The University of Greenwich, FESTIVAL.ORG and Actors Touring Company in support of The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation.

BOOK TICKETS:

bit.ly/gdif23-tickets

THE ARCHITECT’S DREAM

Meet The Architect – a 48-year-old Londoner of Caribbean heritage, arriving in Woolwich to share his dream for a city of the future – a new way of existing. A blueprint that embraces everyone.

Backed by Steel-Pan music, this free, powerful performance, provides a stand-alone culmination to The Architect.

WED 6 – FRI 8 SEP: 7.20PM & 9.20PM SAT 9 & SUN 10 SEP: 3.20PM, 7.20PM & 9.20PM LOCATION: General Gordon Square, Woolwich

FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

28

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

29 Photo: Marti Albesa

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

ROZÉO

GRATTE CIEL

FRANCE (UK PREMIERE)

SAT 9 & SUN 10 SEP 3PM & 6.30PM (35 MINS) LOCATION: Tide Square, SE10 0XX w3w.co/trying.nests.poem FREE UNTICKETED JUST SHOW UP

Perched on 6m high poles, 3 performers create a poetic ritual offering a moment of calm, reflection and wonder.

This living installation is inspired by nature and invites you to immerse yourself in the landscape and beauty of the outdoors.

Take a deep breath, settle down and look up as Gratte Ciel’s awe-inspiring and entrancing performers take to the sky. #GDIF2023 Digital Audio Description

RoZéo at GDIF 2023 is supported by Greenwich Peninsula, Royal Greenwich Festivals and Arts Council England.

30

DANCING CANARY WHARF CITY SAT 9 - SUN 10 Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

SEPTEMBER 1- 6PM

31

Photo: Stu Mayhew

25 August

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

Two extraordinary days of outdoor dance transform the piazzas, parks and waterfronts of Canary Wharf. Discover a spectacular alfresco programme of international and UK dance featuring contemporary, ballet, hip hop, kathak and choreography on a trampoline. Every performance is FREE and unticketed – just show up. Eat and drink at Canary Wharf as part of your visit. Find out more bit.ly/dancing-city See pages 41 & 42 to plan your visit. #GDIF2023

32

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

BOUNCING NARRATIVES

25 August

CANARY RIVERSIDE

W3W: BELOW.DISCREPANCY.LIVELY

ROZA MOSHTAGHI & SHAHRZAD MALEKIAN NORWAY

SAT 9 + SUN 10 1PM, 5.10PM

This immersive performance has been created in and around a transformed shipping container, with a trampoline as a roof. Watch from inside the container, or outside, with the Thames providing a spectacular backdrop. 50 mins AD: SUN 5.10PM Photo: Josh Lake Photo: Juan Gabriel Sanz

Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England

SLEEPWALKER

THE ROYAL BALLET WITH JOE POWELL-MAIN UK

COLUMBUS CTYRD

W3W: LINES.FRAMES.CROWNED

SAT 9 + SUN 10 2.25PM, 3.15PM

Challenging traditional perceptions of ballet, The Royal Ballet travels from the Royal Opera House to E14 to present this new, emotionally charged duet featuring disabled dancer Joe Powell-Main. 10 mins Supported by Canary Wharf Group, The Royal Ballet and Arts Council England.

Photo: Agathe Poupeney

VIVACE

CENTRE CHORÉGRAPHIQUE NATIONAL DE CAEN EN NORMANDIE FRANCE

COLUMBUS CTYRD

W3W: LINES.FRAMES.CROWNED

SAT 9 + SUN 10 1.30PM + 5.20PM

From Baroque to Britney, this playful and surprising dance duet will take you on a hightempo choreographic and musical journey in celebration of vitality, determination and persistence. 40 mins Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England.

33

festival.org @GDIFestival

11 September 2023

DEVA

PAGRAV DANCE

WESTFERRY CIRCUS

W3W: CROWDS.FOCUS.SMILE

SAT 9 + SUN 10 2PM + 3.45PM

UK

TT Playfully questioning perceptions, Urja Desai Thakore and Hetain Patel put classical Indian dance right in the heart of the city, reframing movement with sound and text to reveal insights and surprises at every turn. 30 mins BSL, AD DAILY: 2PM, 3.45PM. TT: SUN 1.40PM Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England, commissioned by Stomping Ground, commissioning partnership which includes The Place, Fabric, Tramway, Creative Crawley and FESTIVAL.ORG

YOU & ME

AMINA KHAYYAM DANCE UK

Photo: Parag Dhanan

WESTFERRY CIRCUS W3W: CROWDS.FOCUS.SMILE

SAT 9 + SUN 10 2.40PM + 4.30PM

This high energy piece combines the traditions of kathak with the intensity of contemporary dance, to tell the story of a same sex relationship, where an ordinary guy wrestles with everything that prevents him from being with his lover. 30 mins Supported by Canary Wharf Group, Without Walls and Arts Council England

WREN I THINK WE SHOULD LANDING START OVER W3W: PUTS.DOWN.HIGHS CANDOCO DANCE COMPANY & JAMAAL BURKMAR UK

Photo: Amina Khayyam Dance Photo: Camilla Greenwell

SAT 9 + SUN 10 1PM + 4PM

This duet from Britain’s leading company of disabled and non-disabled dancers, explores the complexity of relationships, by translating patterns of communication from podcasts and audio recordings into graceful movement and expressive gestures. 20 mins Digital AD + CAP Supported by Canary Wharf Group, Without Walls and Arts Council England

34

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

PAN // CATWALK ZWERMERS

NETHERLANDS

TT

25 August

CANADA SQUARE MALL SAT 9 + SUN 10 1.30PM + 4.00PM

Through a bold fusion of fashion, choreography, live music and theatre, this thought-provoking performance celebrates fluidity and selfexpression. 40 mins SUN 10 TT: 3.45PM | AD 4.00PM Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England.

TREAD Photo: Jostijin Ligtvoet Photo: Reece Darlington

WALKER MOVEMENT THEATRE COMPANY UK

CROSSRAIL PLACE

W3W: DOCK.VILLA.FLOCK

SAT 9 + SUN 10 2.50PM + 4.30PM

With an explosive mix of stunt performance, contemporary dance and physical theatre, TREAD is a hypnotic and entrancing exploration of the Black moving body, inviting audiences into a world where joyful fantasy and brutal reality coexist. 30 mins Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England.

Commissioned by Stomping Ground, a commissioning partnership which includes The Place, Fabric, Creative Crawley, Tramway and FESTIVAL.ORG Photo: Valse À Newton

VALSE À NEWTON LE GRAND JETÉ FRANCE

MONTGOMERY SQUARE

W3W: IMPOSE.VIBES.ZEBRA

SAT 9 + SUN 10 1PM + 5.15PM

This UK premiere of an exciting new French acrodance show features a giant Newton’s Cradle, which becomes the focus for 3 performers, who play with notions of physics, gravity, time and space. 35 mins supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England.

35

festival.org @GDIFestival

11 September 2023

4 MINUTES

WREN LANDING

W3W: PUTS.DOWN.HIGHS

STACKED WONKY

SAT 9 + SUN 10 2.40PM + 3.38PM

UK

Two 16-year-old boys with something to say, are given 4 minutes each to report back on life. In this physically risky, raw and delicate performance, we race through the monotony, irrationality and brilliance of young life. 8 mins Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England Co-commissioned by Applause, The Marlowe and FESTIVAL.ORG, with support of SELEP Ltd as a part of Catalyst For Culture.

ARCADE

CASSON & FRIENDS UK

WATER STREET

Photo: Jake Grant

W3W: TREES.ALBUM.LOVELY

SAT 9 + SUN 10 1.50PM, 3.15PM + 5.30PM

Set to a bouncing electronic soundtrack; these interactive dance games will connect you with the joy of play. Watch the fun unfold or get stuck in and be part of six choreographic games facilitated by a friendly team of dancers. 30 mins AD: SUN 3PM Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England.

MOON

COMPAGNIE BARKS FRANCE

Photo: Eve Allen

HARBOUR QUAY GARDENS

W3W: SOFT.BOUND.CHARGE

SAT 9 + SUN 10 2.30PM + 5.05PM

A table and two chairs, which look as though they are about to fall over, become the setting for a fusion of contemporary dance and acrobalance, suggesting freedom and possibility in an unstable world. 10 mins Supported by Canary Wharf Group and Arts Council England.

Photo: Marc Lahore

36

GREENWICH SATURDAY FAIR 27 AUGUST Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

13.00

13.15

13.30

13.45

14.00

25 August

14.15

14.30

14.45

15.00

15.15

CUTTY SARK GARDENS SITE 1

GREGARIOUS

LES PATINEURS

SITE 2

ANIMALTRONIEK

SITE 3 SITE 4

BIRDIE TEABREAK

SITE 5 MONUMENT GARDENS SITE 6

ROLL MODEL THE SCRIBBLE OF IMAGINATION

SITE 7 KING CHARLES LAWN SITE 8

FAMILY CATWALK EXTRAVAGANZA FUSSY FOODIES

SITE 9 KING CHARLES COURTYARD SITE 10 GREENWICH PARK SITE 11 SITE 12 SITE 13

37

THE WAY AHEAD THE AIR BETWEEN US

WOODLAND ECHOES WAKE WITHIN...

EXIT

WOODLAND WAKE

10 September 2023

15.30

15.45

16.00

festival.org @GDIFestival

16.15

16.30

16.45

17.00

17.15

17.30

17.45

18.00

18.15

GREGARIOUS LES PATINEURS

BIRDIE TEABREAK

ROLL MODEL

FAMILY CATWALK EXTRAVAGANZA FUSSY FOODIES

EXIT

ECHOES WOODLAND WITHIN... WAKE

THE AIR BETWEEN US

38

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

25 August

RIVER THAMES GREENWICH PIER

4

7 6 3

8

10

9 ACCESS AREA

5

A2

2 1

CUTTY SARK DLR

A2

06

6

GREENWICH

39

11 12

ACCESS AREA

festival.org @GDIFestival

10 September 2023

CUTTY SARK GARDENS SITE 1 w3w: loads.toward.cargo SITE 2 w3w: flip.patch.occurs SITE 3 w3w: vague.guard.intelligible SITE 4 w3w: push.loudly.living SITE 5 w3w: ship.silent.become MONUMENT GARDENS SITE 6 w3w: forest.song.pigs SITE 7 w3w: prefer.lives.enjoy

6

20

MAZE HILL

KING CHARLES LAWN SITE 8 w3w: driver.dreams.pinks SITE 9 w3w: chins.dates.sugar KING CHARLES COURTYARD SITE 10 w3w: builds.sizes.spots GREENWICH PARK SITE 11 w3w: wizard.talent.paths SITE 12 w3w: wizard.talent.paths SITE 13 w3w: skill.cloud.known

13

40

DANCING CANARY CITY WHARF

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

WE

HERTSMERE ROAD

25 August

ST FE RR Y

3

RO AD

SAT 9 SEPT SUN 10 SEPT

1

2

WEST INDIA AVENUE

WESTFERRY CIRCUS

W

ACCESS AREA

ES TF ER RY AD

1 CANARY RIVERSIDE

13.15 13.30 13.45 14.00 14.15 14.30 14.45 15.00

BOUNCING NARRATIVES YOU & ME

DEVA

2 WESTFERRY CIRCUS

TT: 1.40PM VIVACE

3 COLUMBUS COURTYARD 4 WREN LANDING

SLEEPWALKER

I THINK WE SHOULD START OVER

4 MINS TREAD

5 CROSSRAIL PLACE 6 MONTGOMERY SQUARE MALL 7 CANADA LEVEL -1

VALSE À NEWTON

PAN // CATWALK

MOON

QUAY 8 HARBOUR GARDENS

9 WATER STREET

41

Place

RO

13.00

ARCADE

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

NORTH QUAY

DLR

WEST INDIA QUAY DL5

CROSSRAIL PLACE & ROOF GARDEN ADAM’S PLAZA

7

LEVEL-1

SOUTH COLONNADE

SOUTH

COLONNADE

JUBILEE LINE

WA Y AF AL GA R

MONTGOMERY SQUARE

MIDDLE DOCK

JUBILEE PARK

JUBILEE LINE

JUBILEE LINE

6

BLACK BAS

IER

ADDINGTON QUAY

REUTERS PLAZA

CHURCHILL PLACE

9

WATER STREET

HERON QUAYS DLR

8

CHARTER STREET

CABOT PLACE

CI C T R R

NORTH COLONNADE CANARY WHARF DLR

CART

CABOT SQUARE

UPPER BANK STREET

NORTH COLONNADE

Park Drive

FROBISHER PASSAGE

4

5

CROSSRAIL PLACE

LE

NORTH DOCK

UNION SQUARE

GEORGE STREET

CHART

HARBOUR QUAY GARDENS SOUTH DOCK

15.15 15.30 15.45 16.00 16.15 16.30 16.45 17.00 17.15 17.30 17.45 BOUNCING NARRATIVES AD: SUN 10 YOU & ME

DEVA

VIVACE

SLEEPWALKER 4 MINS

I THINK WE SHOULD START OVER TREAD

VALSE À NEWTON

PAN //

CATWALK

AD: SUN 10 TT: 3.45 MOON

ARCADE

ARCADE

AD: SUN 10

42

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

YOUR VISIT

BE PART OF IT

You can help make sure everyone has a great experience at GDIF by: • Allowing children to the front, and being mindful of sight lines at busy shows by sitting on the ground • Respecting accessible viewing areas

• Following advice from staff and volunteers on site

• Having your tickets ready and arriving in good time for ticketed shows • Respecting others’ personal space and comfort zones

• Following us on social media for live updates, including weather related information. We will only ever cancel if absolutely necessary, so remember to check the forecast and bring appropriate clothing.

25 August

PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILMING

We have photographers and film makers at GDIF events. If you don’t want to be featured in our future content, please wear a ‘No Photography’ sticker, available from our volunteers. Taken a great photo at GDIF? Share on social and tag @GDIFestival using #GDIF2023.

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK

We want to hear from you about your experience of the festival and how we can make it even better next year. Please fill out our feedback form online or at a GDIF event. We’d love to hear from you: festival.org/gdif-2023-survey

GDIF VOLUNTEERS SPONSORED BY UBER BOAT BY THAMES CLIPPERS

GDIF’s friendly volunteers are on hand at every event to help with information and directions. You can’t miss them in their bright pink t-shirts.

Ask them about travel options, access information, or show recommendations.

LOVE GDIF?

Please help us to keep the Festival free by donating today or during your visit. This will be the 28th edition of GDIF and over many years we hope that GDIF has left many audience members with spectacular memories that still live on. By supporting the Festival, you can help make sure that we can continue to celebrate together in future years.

43

• Donating at GDIF events look out for our contactless donation points at events.

• Donate online at bit.ly/supportGDIF

Greenwich & Docklands Festivals (trading as FESTIVAL.ORG) is a Registered Charity, No 1037878

11 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

ACCESS AT GDIF

Inclusion is at the heart of GDIF. We aim to offer an unforgettable and accessible festival for everyone.

FIND OUT MORE

ONLINE: festival.org/access PHONE: 02083 055021

E-MAIL: access@festival.org TEXT: 07899 893 953

ACCESS ON SITE:

On site, you will be greeted by our friendly team of staff and volunteers.

All of our sites: • Are relaxed • Are wheelchair accessible • Welcome Assistance Dogs • Some chairs available

ON OUR WEBSITE

Check out our website for detailed site accessibility, including: • Viewing Area Information • Access and quiet areas • Blue badge parking • Accessible toilets • Photo travel routes and maps • Assisted routes • Downloadable resources

ACCESSIBLE SHOWS:

• We have bespoke accessibility for each show. Use the access keys (below) on each event page.

• Shows with speech will have BSL interpreted or captioned performances. Some shows are captioned via The Difference Engine App – download via your App store and bring a portable charger.

• Most shows will have audio support.

These will either be live via headsets or pre-recorded via QR codes and downloadable from the website event page.

• Easy Read is available on our website. Find QR codes and printed copies on site with our access team.

• E-mail to book your space for Greenwich Fair and Dancing City access tours and access areas.

ACCESS KEY

WHAT TO EXPECT

BSL Interpreted

Join in

Captioned

On the move

Audio Described

Great for kids

Easy Read

Speech free

Touch Tour

TT

Sensory spectacle

44

Greenwich+Docklands International Festival

25 August

ALL OUR THANKS SUPPORTED BY

FESTIVAL.ORG TEAM Adeyinka Akinrinade, Box Office Manager Amelia Chisholm, Access Assistant Adalmiina Erkkola, Volunteering Consultant Shaun Evelyn, Head of Communications & Audiences Marie Faucher, Administrative & International Producer Caroline Francis, Producer Ellie Harris, Executive Producer Bradley Hemmings MBE, Artistic Director Alison Holder, Associate Producer Kat Gill, Access Producer Hiromi Kikuchi, Access Placement

Ella Kennedy, Volunteer Coordinator Mary Mekonen, Digital Marketing Officer Edel McGrath, Operations Manager Africa Nile, Engagement & Audience Development Ken Rankin, Health & Safety Consultant Toby Smith, Associate Director Tiffany Tam, Production Assistant Diana Whitehead, PR Consultant Matilda Wilde, Artist Liaison Coordinator Marie Williams, Accountant Corinna Woolmer, Head of Production

OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES

PATRONS

Geoffrey Pine (Chair), Vicki Amedume MBE, Caroline Correia, Cllr Gary Dillon, Cllr Iqbal Hossain Paul Hanrahan, Josh Harsant, Fiona Hughes, Oliver Hughes, Rahee Nayar, Dr Maxine Room, Jenny Sealey OBE, Dr Margaret Sheehy.

We are extremely grateful to our patrons for their continued support: Tony Hales, Lew Hodges, Maggi Knights, Felicity Lane, Jean Lebrecht, Antony McBride, Geoffrey Pine and Richard White, and Dr Maxine Room CBE

45 Photo: Thomas Cavanagh

10 September 2023

festival.org @GDIFestival

“IT’S DIFFICULT FOR GDIF TO GENUINELY TOP ITSELF. BUT THE 2023 EDITION IS GIVING IT A JOLLY GOOD TRY” TIME OUT LONDON

Brochure design: Guy J Sanders Cover art: Guy J Sanders with collage elements by Marc Chaillou & Aerial-motion, Back cover art: Guy J Sanders with collage elements by Vincent Mosch

46

3

FESTIVAL.ORG @GDIFestival