March 27, 2023

A quick note about my upcoming projects currently in progress.

Hadi Nahleh’s current projects, *Interlace* and *Jot*, both offer thought-provoking explorations of movement and perception, each engaging with distinct yet interconnected themes. *Interlace* presents a minimalist yet immersive performance, where the choreography emphasizes human connection and spatial awareness, with performers intertwined to symbolize unity and shared existence. In contrast, *Jot* invites the audience to reexamine the details of life, focusing on the smallest elements—fractions, atoms, and particles—that shape our experiences. Through these pieces, Nahleh continues to challenge and expand the boundaries of contemporary performance art, encouraging a deeper appreciation for both collective and individual realities.

“Interlace” employs a minimalist yet impactful aesthetic, using mixed media, diverse settings, and nuanced choreography to highlight the performers’ movements and the spaces they inhabit. The performers, sometimes connected physically by holding each other’s joints, embody the concept of becoming a single entity, creating a visual representation of interconnectedness and shared existence.

Interlace

“Interlace” represents the concluding chapter of a choreographic kinetic trilogy that explores the intricate tapestry of human existence, cultural identity, and the transcendent power of movement. Rooted in the artist’s cultural and personal experiences, the project seamlessly merges body movement systems with traces and inspiration drawn from the rich visual symbolism of Islamic patterns.

“Interlace” is a dynamic and adaptable performance piece that can be presented as a solo, duet, or trio, designed to fit various environments such as theaters, outdoor spaces, and white cubes. This flexibility allows the work to transform and resonate within different contexts, making it accessible to a broader audience. The performance uses mixed media and diverse scenarios to create a multifaceted experience that emphasizes change, transformation, and integration.

Inspired by the need to embrace change and transformation, “Interlace” delves into the themes of separation, disconnection, and ultimately, integration. The work is influenced by the artist’s exploration of the unknown and his journey towards reconnection. By integrating body movement with the intricate and symbolic patterns of Islamic art, the piece reflects a deep connection to cultural roots and personal growth.

“Jot” utilizes a blend of contemporary dance, experimental soundscapes, minimalist set designs, and intricate costume design to create an atmosphere where each small movement and sound holds weight.

“Jot” is a dynamic performative work that delves into the significance of the smallest moments and their profound impact on our lives. Drawing from the definitions of ‘jot’ as a fraction, speck, atom, particle, and scintilla, this piece explores the power and importance of seemingly insignificant events and actions.

“Jot” aims to shift perspectives, urging the audience to recognize and value the ‘fractions,’ ‘specks,’ ‘atoms,’ ‘particles,’ and ‘scintillas’ of their experiences. By the end of the performance, viewers will hopefully leave with a heightened awareness of the beauty and significance found in the minutiae of life.

“Jot” invites the audience to reflect on the minimal yet meaningful aspects of existence. This performance interweaves dance, music, visual art, and innovative costume design to highlight the delicate and often overlooked fragments of life that, together, create a complex and beautiful tapestry. Through a series of vignettes and abstract representations, “Jot” examines how tiny actions and fleeting moments can evoke powerful emotions and memories, shaping our identity and understanding of the world.

Inspired by the notion that every small part matters, “Jot” challenges the audience to find significance in the minute details of their daily lives. By focusing on ‘fractions,’ ‘specks,’ ‘atoms,’ ‘particles,’ and ‘scintillas,’ the performance encourages a deeper appreciation for the subtle, yet impactful moments that often go unnoticed.