Tanz! Heilbronn 2026 | BLKDOG von Botis Seva | Far From The Norm (UK)

In the organizer's words:

In the Olivier Award-winning hip-hop performance "BLKDOG", internationally acclaimed British choreographer Botis Seva and his company "Far From The Norm" explore the complex connection between self-awareness and self-destruction. Existential questions are raised, about repression, violence and early traumatization: a beautiful and at the same time dramatic
The play is a beautiful yet drastic examination of the challenges facing a young generation in a world that does not seem to have been made for them.
The stage features an impressive composition of emotionally charged hip-hop choreography, dark, driving music that draws the characters' thoughts, personal texts by Botis Seva himself and his company members, and fascinating lighting design between fog and disillusionment. The dancers are on an intense search for coping strategies and express the deeply human need for acceptance.
"BLKDOG" transcends cultural boundaries, appeals to a global audience of diverse backgrounds and expresses a deep humanity that one cannot or does not want to escape. How do we deal with difficult childhood memories, with traumatic experiences in adulthood, with the connections in between? How do we find peace?

Botis Seva is a pioneering choreographic voice rooted in hip-hop dance theater. The British artist's work grows out of real life, taking his own stories and those of the people around him, while incorporating techniques from film, literature, art and other dance languages to constantly evolve his approach to creativity and the stage. Away from conventional educational paths, Seva developed the desire to become a choreographer at the age of 15. At 19, he founded his hip-hop dance theater company "Far From The Norm" with friends in Dagenham, London.
In his early years, the "Breakin' Convention" workshops at Sadler's Wells Theatre shaped his self-confidence and his signature style. His work was soon to be found on stage, in public venues and in dance film circles. He has received numerous awards, including a grant from the Bonnie Bird Choreography Fund, the Marion North Mentoring Award (2015), the Copenhagen International Choreography Competition Award (2016), Choreography 30 Hannover (2016) and the Olivier Award for "BLKDOG" (2019) as best new dance production, and has been nominated for several other awards. Seva has also been involved in several films and has created commissioned works for the stage for various companies and theaters, e.g. Scottish Dance Theatre, Rupert Goold, National Youth Dance Company, Wayne McGregor and Robin Friend, Battersea Arts Centre/Suri Krishnamma, Acosta Dance and NDT.