Dimitris Papaioannou – Transverse Orientation

Papaioannou first established an international reputation when he created the epic opening ceremony for the 2004 Athens Olympics. A director, choreographer, performer and visual artist, he has reached far beyond traditional art forms, taking storytelling to a new level. Papaioannou directed the Emmy Award winning Baku 2015 European Games Opening Ceremony.

Three years after his sold-out debut at Sadler’s Wells with the Olivier-nominated The Great Tamer, Dimitris Papaioannou returns with his latest work Transverse Orientation, co-commissioned by Dance Umbrella and Sadler’s Wells. Papaioannou explores existential themes, mining mythology and art history to conjure vivid and often humorous imagery. Taking inspiration from the natural behaviour of moths to seek light, Transverse Orientation follows the human compulsion to find meaning on the journey of life. With a background in fine arts, Papaioannou’s creations blur theatre, experimental choreography and live performance to transform bodies and objects by illusion. Coming to international prominence following his direction of the 2004 Olympic ceremonies in Athens, his work has been seen by audiences across the world.

Part of Dance Umbrella