Candoco's 'Over and Over' Explores Dance and Disability at Sadler's Wells

In a groundbreaking performance at Sadler's Wells East in London, the Candoco Dance Company presented 'Over and Over (and Over Again),' a provocative exploration of dance, disability, and the concept of rest. The show runs until July 4, 2025, and features a diverse ensemble of dancers, both disabled and non-disabled, who challenge conventional norms of performance and express the duality of freedom and struggle in club culture.

The choreography, directed by Dan Daw, unfolds within the vibrant setting of a nightclub, enhanced by a pulsating soundtrack that includes house, drum’n’bass, and dubstep. However, the production transcends mere entertainment. It confronts the societal expectations often placed on performers, particularly the expectation to endure pain without respite. As stated in a press release from the company, 'This is not a forum for pushing through pain; anyone can take a break when needed.' This philosophy of prioritizing well-being over performance excellence marks a significant shift in the dance community, where pushing through discomfort is typically valorized.

According to Dr. Lisa Macuja, a prominent figure in dance studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, 'Candoco’s approach to rest as an act of resistance redefines the relationship between performer and audience. It highlights the necessity of self-care in the pursuit of artistic expression.' This perspective resonates throughout the performance, as the dancers embody themes of solidarity and personal struggle.

The production features various segments that metaphorically draw parallels between the club environment and the personal journeys of the performers. In one notable scene, dancers gather on a beanbag during a “chill-out” segment, with the backdrop displaying the phrase 'rest as an act of resistance.' Such imagery prompts viewers to contemplate the cultural significance of rest, particularly in high-pressure artistic settings.

Annie Edwards, a standout performer, captivates audiences with her embodiment of the music's rhythm, while Maiya Leeke's striking visual as a human disco ball serves as a poignant symbol of immersion in the dance experience. According to Temitope Ajose, a dancer with Candoco, 'The performance allows us to express our stories through movement, while also acknowledging the space we occupy as individuals with varying abilities.'

The show's impact extends beyond its immediate performance, as it calls for broader dialogue on inclusivity within the arts. The National Endowment for the Arts reported in a 2022 study that only 26% of arts organizations actively include artists with disabilities, underscoring the importance of productions like 'Over and Over' that challenge these barriers.

In conclusion, 'Over and Over (and Over Again)' not only entertains but also serves as a critical commentary on the intersections of disability, art, and societal expectations. As Candoco continues to lead the way in integrated dance, their innovative approaches are likely to inspire future works that further advocate for inclusivity and redefine the boundaries of performance art. The performance invites audiences to reflect on their own relationship with rest, creativity, and community in the pursuit of freedom on and off the dancefloor.