Grupo Grupo Dance review

Nimble, athletic and graceful, Brazil’s modern dance troupe Grupo Grupo delighted audiences this past weekend as part of Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center, a TMC Arts program. Once again, the exciting programming brings dazzling dance theater, in this case one of Brazil’s most renowned contemporary dance companies to the L.A. stage for the first time since 2011. It was a rare opportunity to experience the dynamic artistry of Grupo Corpo’s unique fusion of classical ballet with Brazilian cultural elements.

The two major works that were staged this past weekend, 21 and Gira, are masterful in their design and construction, incorporating classical ballet, folk traditions and bold choreography over two 40-minute acts.

The large corps of dancers – all 22 are on stage at times – create beautiful patterns of movement in perfect sync with each other. Strength and agility combined with elegant choreography delivers a mesmerizing modern ballet infused with native rhythms. Thoughtfully choreographed, I noticed how the dancers are given time to recuperate in-between their time in the spotlight. This was especially evident during Gira, where we saw the dancers retreat to sit on chairs at the edge of the stage, ducking under black shrouds as they awaited their next entrance. The result was that none of the dancers on the periphery pulled focus from those on stage, and everyone seemed to have plenty of energy and stamina for the challenging routines.

21

Grupo Corpo’s ballet 21 is a landmark work in the Brazilian contemporary dance scene. Premiering in 1992, it marked a significant evolution for the company, transitioning from using pre-existing music to collaborating with composers to create original scores. This shift allowed choreographer Rodrigo Pederneiras to delve deeper into the rhythmic and cultural nuances of Brazilian dance. The ballet’s title, 21, reflects its structural and thematic foundation, exploring the number’s symbolic and mathematical properties through movement.

21 is divided into three distinct movements, each weaving intricate rhythmic and timbral combinations around the number 21. The choreography is characterized by its mathematical precision, blending the energy of Brazilian folk dances with the formality of classical ballet. The dancers’ athleticism and versatility are showcased through complex sequences that embody the essence of Brazilian cultural vibrancy.

The score for 21 was composed by Marco Antônio Guimarães, featuring the unique sounds of the Brazilian instrumental group Uakti. Their unconventional instruments and innovative techniques provide a rich auditory backdrop that complements the choreography’s dynamic movements. This collaboration between choreographer and composer exemplifies Grupo Corpo’s commitment to creating immersive and original works that resonate with audiences.

The production’s visual elements are integral to its storytelling. Set design by Fernando Velloso, costumes by Freusa Zechmeister, and lighting by Paulo Pederneiras create a cohesive aesthetic that enhances the ballet’s themes and energy. These elements work in harmony to transport audiences into a world where movement, music, and visual art converge seamlessly.

Since its debut, 21 has been a defining piece in Grupo Corpo’s repertoire, showcasing the company’s unique blend of classical technique and Brazilian cultural influences. Its innovative approach to choreography and music has influenced contemporary dance and solidified Grupo Corpo’s reputation as a leading force in the global dance community.

Gira

Grupo Corpo’s Gira is a powerful and evocative contemporary dance piece that delves into the spiritual and ritualistic practices of Afro-Brazilian religions, particularly focusing on the Umbanda tradition. Premiered in 2017, Gira was choreographed by Rodrigo Pederneiras, with stage design by Paulo Pederneiras and costumes by Freusa Zechmeister. The work draws inspiration from the “gira de Exu,” a ceremonial dance honoring Exu, the orixá (spirit) who serves as a mediator between the human and spiritual realms in Afro-Brazilian religions. 

Gira is not a literal representation of religious rituals but rather an artistic reimagining of their essence. Rodrigo Pederneiras immersed himself in the practices of Umbanda and Candomblé to capture the dynamic and trance-like movements characteristic of these ceremonies. The choreography incorporates repetitive, spiraling motions and sudden shifts in energy, reflecting the transformative and ecstatic nature of the rituals.

The score for Gira was composed by the São Paulo-based band Metá Metá, known for their fusion of jazz, rock, and traditional Brazilian sounds. The music features 11 original themes that range from rhythmic chanting and animalistic cries to jazz-infused saxophone melodies. These compositions mirror the dancers’ movements, enhancing the piece’s immersive and otherworldly atmosphere.

The stage design is minimalist yet impactful, with black tulle draping the three walls of the performance space, creating a sense of infinity and blurring the boundaries between the physical and spiritual worlds. Dancers are dressed in identical costumes: bare torsos and white skirts made from raw linen, symbolizing purity and unity. This uniformity emphasizes the collective experience of the ritual and the interconnectedness of all participants.

Gira is characterized by its intense physicality and emotional depth. The dancers’ movements are both precise and fluid, capturing the essence of ritualistic dance while conveying a profound sense of spirituality. Critics have lauded the piece for its ability to transport audiences into a trance-like state, reflecting the transformative power of the rituals it portrays. The performance’s energy builds gradually, culminating in a climactic finale that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

Since its debut, Gira has been performed internationally, showcasing Grupo Corpo’s commitment to exploring and celebrating Brazilian cultural heritage through contemporary dance. The piece has been praised for its innovative choreography, compelling music, and striking visual design, solidifying its place as a significant work in the company’s repertoire.

About the company:

Founded in 1975 by artistic director Paulo Pederneiras and choreographer Rodrigo Pederneiras, Grupo Corpo (meaning “Body Group” in Portuguese) is renowned for its unparalleled blend of popular Brazilian culture, African rhythms and classical technique. In 21, dancers weave rhythmic and timbral combinations around the number 21. Audiences will be delighted by the musical score’s unique sounds emanating from composer Marco Antonio Guimarães’ unusual instrumental creations. In Gira, Rodrigo Pederneiras constructs a powerful glossary of gestures of praise and trance-like turning and movement inspired by Afro-Brazilian religious rituals and set to 11 musical themes that were created especially for the company by the Brazilian fusion group Metá Metá.

ABOUT GLORYA KAUFMAN PRESENTS DANCE AT THE MUSIC CENTER:
Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center, a TMC Arts program, is one of the leading presenters of dance on the West Coast. The celebrated series offers significant works by prestigious ballet and contemporary dance artists from around the world. Now in its 22^ndyear, Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center is a powerful force, bringing works by today’s most influential companies and choreographers to audiences in Los Angeles. Performances are complemented by special experiences for both ticket buyers and the public with opportunities to learn more about the choreography and the themes explored, including panels, master classes, dance film festivals, interactive experiences and more. The 22^nd season of Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center is generously supported by Glorya Kaufman Foundation, Center Dance Arts, Dorothy B. Chandler Program Fund and Elisabeth Katte Harris.

ABOUT CENTER DANCE ARTS:
Center Dance Arts is a dynamic community of patrons with a passion for dance. Center Dance Arts members bring dance to life in Los Angeles by promoting The Music Center’s world-class dance performances, extensive educational outreach and free and low-cost community experiences so all may experience the transformative power of dance. For more information, visit musiccenter.org/cda.

ABOUT THE MUSIC CENTER:
The Music Center convenes artists, communities and ideas with the goal of deepening the cultural lives of every resident in Los Angeles County. The $80 million non-profit performing arts organization has two divisions: TMC Arts and TMC Ops. TMC Arts, The Music Center’s programming engine, provides year-round programming inside The Music Center’s four theatres, on Jerry Moss Plaza, outside at Gloria Molina Grand Park—a 12-acre adjacent green space—in schools and other locations all over Los Angeles County. TMC Arts presents world-class dance with Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center, free and low-cost public concerts and events, live and digital K–12 arts education programs, workshops, performances, interactive experiences and special events. TMC Ops manages the theatres, the Plaza and Gloria Molina Grand Park, which comprise $3 billion in county assets, on behalf of the County of Los Angeles. The Music Center is also home to four renowned resident companies—Center Theatre Group, Los Angeles Master Chorale, LA Opera and LA Phil. For more information, visit musiccenter.org. Follow The Music Center on social media @MusicCenterLA.