Sydney Dance Company
Impermanence

Founded in 1969, Sydney Dance Company is one of the most formidable contemporary dance ensembles currently at work in Australia, distinguished by the emotional intensity of its performances, its spirit of experimentation and innovation in exploring the human body’s capacities, and its seamless integration of cultural influences. Comprised currently of seventeen dancers, it tours major festivals and theatrical stages around the world, garnering unanimous recognition. Notably, it was the first Western contemporary dance company to perform in the People's Republic of China. As of 2009, its artistic director is renowned Spanish choreographer Rafael Bonachela.

On July 4, the company arrives at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, joined by the Zaïde Quartet, to present Impermanence, a work choreographed by Rafael Bonachela with an original music composition by Bryce Dessner. This deeply profound work focuses on the fleeting nature of existence and the mutability of all those we perceive as eternal and granted—whether material or immaterial. Following its premiere in Sydney in 2021, it has graced stages worldwide, from New York to London and beyond, sparking widespread critical acclaim.

The music, composed specifically for this piece, is the work of Bryce Dessner, acclaimed composer and co-founder of the American group The National. Known for his original score contributions to films such as The Revenant and The Two Popes, Dessner collaborated closely with Bonachela, drawing initial inspiration from the catastrophic fire at Notre Dame Cathedral and the devastating Australian wildfires in 2019.

“Bonachela’s exquisite choreography fuses modern ballet, yoga, and contemporary movement as performed with the impressive athleticism and fierce grace of the company.”

“The result is moving and powerful, at once capturing transience and fragility, then strength and passion of the work.” TimeOut

“Choreographer Rafael Bonachela sets his excellent dancers on a whirling, bounding trajectory that sustains them in duets, trios, and interestingly constructed ensembles…”
The Sydney Morning Herald