‘Maggie? Are you still there?

Yes, just lost in a distant memory’

15th of September 2017. Dusk. Six artists enter the River Dee to perform a version of folklore, myth and sound; a version that has become not only deep seated in the site but that has also become an ever growing necessary and vital piece of communication. The piece is about the performance of the River and how its physical manifestation affects and displaces the bodies within it. With special thanks to editor Faustas Talacka, this is the moving image that remains from that night.

Supported by Creative Scotland, Aberdeen City Council and sonADA

Very dramatic, moving and brave project - so many thanks for letting us spectate! (Fran Scot, retired teacher)

Without makers like you the world is dead, it was alive last night, as Pina would say ‘Dance, dance, dance, or we are lost’ (Richard White, Dancer)

A most memorable performance! It was poetic, beautiful and original. I loved the emotional intensity, the intelligence with which rhythms are created and the storytelling with a dimension of tragedy. The artists showed extraordinary courage, strength and commitment. The River Dee added romance and flows of movement to the performance; while the dance brought fresh life and beauty to the river. Truly wonderful! (Lin Xiong)

RIVER was a stunningly original and daring production. The performers led us through an exploration of myth, through a story of rivalry, love and horror with complex synchronised choreography and swimming and spine chilling drama. Who in attendance could forget standing on the riverbank in the gathering darkness as Imogene Newland, in white shift and with arms flailing, screamed in terror as the current appeared to drag her to oblivion? This production was not just brave in its imaginative scope but in its actual execution. The performers endured the icy waters of the Dee river, the mud and the rain to realise an absolutely unique production full of raw emotion and energy. (Grainne Cullen, North East of Scotland Music School)

Screening includes a short live performance from Angela Main and Imogene Newland.

You can find more information about the project on the artists blog: https://theriver2017.wordpress.com/