A Swiss artist whose career in dance has brought her to Liverpool will bring a powerful one woman show to Prescot this summer, following a mentorship from an award-winning British performer.
In Bloom by Aline Costa, which runs from 18th to 20th July at Shakespeare North, promises to be a “mesmerising dance performance with powerful imagery and unexpected twists taking you on an unforgettable journey into the unknown.”
Costa, a performer and choreographer born in Switzerland, trained in Mexico at Univerdanza Dance Company, and has been based in Huyton and Liverpool since 2016. Her latest show brings a unique vision to the stage, captivating audiences with her artistry, skill and elegant eccentricity.
Whilst putting together this new show, Aline has been mentored by the acclaimed artist, dance performer, choreographer and dance film-maker, Liz Aggiss.
For the past 40 years Aggiss has been re(de)fining her signature style and brand of British contemporary dance; from her early days in the 80’s supporting punk legends The Stranglers to winning a Total Theatre Award in 2017 for her show Slap and Tickle. She was given a Bonnie Bird Choreography Award in 1994, an Arts Council Dance Fellowship in 2003, and has been commissioned by the likes of The Zap, Gardner Arts Brighton, University of Surrey and South Bank.
Speaking during rehearsals for the show, Costa said: “Liz Aggiss has been instrumental in the development of “In Bloom.” She has been present during my studio time, guiding, mentoring, advising, and suggesting new elements for the piece. Liz never imposes her view but always kindly offers her vast experience and background, not only in dance but also regarding the philosophy of being an artist in this world.”
Aline continued: “For me, it was an enormous opportunity to work with someone like Liz Aggiss. I knew she would challenge me, question my decisions for the piece, and push me to explore new ways to communicate on stage. She took me out of my comfort zone, which is so important as an artist. We learn so much in those moments. I believe the piece is now much stronger and has a clearer meaning.”
Aline herself holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Stage Dance from the Institute of Fine Arts at Colima University, Mexico, where she worked as a dancer and creator for Univerdanza Dance Company.
Since moving to Liverpool, her career has seen her produce, choreograph and perform across the North West, as well as working on a variety of short films.
Most recently, she was offered a Physical Fest Female Bursary to create a new solo piece and presented it at the festival last summer at the Unity Theatre in Liverpool to great acclaim.
Drawing inspiration from a variety of dance and physical theatre techniques and styles, “In Bloom” features evocative imagery, compelling narratives and dark humour, guiding the audience through a world of unreality, filled with thought-provoking moments and unpredictable twists and turns, ultimately delivering an experience that is actively engaging and imaginatively bizarre.
In Bloom also features original music by celebrated Liverpool avant-garde quartet, Ex-Easter Island Head.
In Bloom will be performed at Shakespeare North in Prescot from 18th July to 20th July 2024. Tickets start at just £5 and are available from the venue’s website.
