Charles Washington
Exploring Low Energy Dance

This residency project by Charles Wahsington aims to explore the concept of low-energy dance and its potential for virtuosity whilst investigating somatic methods of maintaining energy levels in middle-aged dancers. Inspired by the principles of sustainability and mental health, this study aims to illuminate the intersection of physicality, creativity and well-being within the dance community. By exploring the importance of low-energy dance, it aims to contribute to the development of sustainable practices in dance and promote the holistic health of middle-aged dancers.

Charles A. Washington, born in Perth in 1982, is a Scottish dancer and choreographer who began his dance journey at the age of 21 when he was accepted at the Rambert School in London. After graduating, Charles had the honour of working with renowned choreographers from home and abroad. These have included artists such as Ross Mckim, Fleur Darkin, Will Tucket, Lucy Burge, Cesc Gelabert, Jan Pauch, Yossi Berg & Oded Graf, Katrin Hall, Roy Assaf, Darren Ellis, Maxim Didenko and Vladimir Varnava. In 2016, Charles founded his own company, Pinkmetalpetal Productions, with which he has already created many works that have been performed in national theatres. These include "Witch way Macbeth?" and "Content" at the Staatstheater Braunschweig, "The Spirit Bird" and "finding now" at the LOT Theatre and "ME" in collaboration with the Dresden University of Fine Arts and the Palucca University of Dance Dresden. With the desire to further develop his artistic skills, Charles obtained a Master of Arts in Choreography in 2018. He also completed a masterclass at the Palucca University of Dance Dresden in 2021 entitled "We are all a subculture?".

Since its foundation in 1997, the theatre has stood for the promotion of the performing arts in Leipzig and Saxony, for the promotion of young talent in the local area and for national and international productions in the fields of dance, performance and theatre art. It is one of the most important centres for the independent performing arts in Saxony and has been located on the Spinnerei Leipzig site since 2019. Its profile is developing organically in national and international contexts and continues to strengthen its relationship with Leipzig and Saxon cultural life and its protagonists. A staggered programme for emerging artists supports new artists from the first experiment in the workshop series, through the mentoring and accompanying impulse programme, to the Artist Development Programme, which establishes and networks local artists nationally and internationally. Openly advertised co-productions, thematic festivals and numerous collaborations lead to a programme of around 150 events a year, which are accompanied by an education programme. LOFFT is committed to the interests of independent performing artists in cultural policy at local, regional and national level.