Words from the choreographer

A solo show that celebrates the importance of love and art.

Following his lineage of solo work, imbued with sobriety, abstraction, and simplicity, José Navas continues dancing his life on stage, as he has done for the last forty years.

This show comprises four dance solos that will invite the audience into the personal story of José Navas and Bill Douglas. The two artists met and lived together in NYC and later Montreal, sharing life and art until the death of Douglas from AIDS in 1996. The culmination of this artistic relationship, “While Waiting” – choreographed by Douglas and performed by Navas – was recognized in 1994 with a Bessie Award (New York Dance and Performance Award).

The choreographer–soloist will perform on a simple open stage, set with three chairs. There will be movement in the space to the music of Bach, PJ Harvey, Billie Holliday, and Dorothy Moore. He renews his longstanding collaborations with light designer Marc Parent and costume designer Sonya Bayer.

AVES is a luminous dance ritual of hope and optimism, Navas’ way to pay homage to Douglas.

Premiere at De Schakel, Waregem (BE), October 26, 2022

AVES is the recipient of the 2023 RIDEAU / Maisons de la culture Award