This podcast is recorded in English. For those who do not speak the language, or who do not have time to listen to the full podcast, here are some quotes.
'Originally, I had no title. Someone came up with 'Born to' and then I thought it would be nice to put 'manifesto' after it. After all, it's about appearing, exhibiting. When there was also going to be an open-air version of it, I turned it into 'protest'. After all, in French, 'manifester' is 'protester'.'
'I then figured out that 'Born to Protest' would be an outdoor version, and the title works because it's about a group of black men and a woman, performing in the street. That's not a norm to see that in a group on the street like that, and so it's a protest against that norm.'
'My intention is to address people's stereotypes. In Dresden, where I just came from, we played to a totally different audience than I am used to in England. The performers were worried about that. Then I said: don't judge them, because you don't want them to judge you either. That was a good lesson for them.'
'The Royal Ballet was looking to connect with other audiences, and also wanted to explore Hiphop. I took the plunge and applied. In talking to them, I felt an ambition to actually take a step towards becoming a more inclusive company. I found it fascinating to join, not to change everything, but to educate them about what things are like in other communities.'
'I am very interested in youth work and community work. I hope to bring my experiences with that to the ballet. The most important thing is that the groups I work with feel welcome in datt building. That's why I also want to make all rehearsals public. Then more dancers and choreographers from other groups will come to watch, and be inspired.'
'It is a quest to bring more vulnerability to the masculine power inherent in a lot of hip-hop. I start by taking my two daughters (aged 2 and 6) to all rehearsals. That helps me in conveying empathy and understanding during rehearsals.'
'So I was not surprised by the racist reactions to the lost European Cup final. What I do think is good, however bad it is for the players it happened to, is that it is now clear once and for all what racist aggression we are dealing with. It is now no longer hidden. That can help make it discussable.'
'I want my performances to be seen by as many people as possible. Not only in Europe, also I the US. It can make people think about the way they look at others. It also allows you to look at behaviour differently. What seems aggressive can also be a sign of passion. This physicality is also culturally determined. Often, work now is only about the hardships people go through. I would also like it to be about the relationships you can build with others, through dance.'
Good to know
English (UK) 
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