Redshift is a full-length work, originally commissioned by Chunky Move as part of the Next Move program in 2017.

Redshift is a queer universe in which measurement systems are troubled by the unmeasurable. It stems from a curiosity in touch, physical sensation and speculation of the unknown from body to space. The work is the second in a trilogy that grew from James' unique opportunity to combine scientific and artistic inquiry in one of the most remote places on Earth. James and collaborator Annalie Rees were part of an expedition of 60 scientists, artists and ship’s crew that journeyed to the sub-Antarctic Heard and McDonald islands in 2016. This is the second work they have made in collaboration since the expedition, following Deepspace.

‘Batchelor’s direction and choreography is exceptionally mature, and a dedication to physical and conceptual development is evidenced in his style. The intersection of fluidity, focus and freeness in this work suggests an experience of desire, but not in the sexual sense. Rather it feels as if we are privy to the innate desire of atoms to move and bounce, of elements to react and energy to flow. Witnessing the performers’ bodies fuse and melt together is visually satisfying, and at times hypnotic, as if we are present while someone is lucid dreaming. It is true that this work is not interested in providing us with a night’s easy entertainment, but instead we are provided with something more challenging, more inquisitive. Instead we are offered the space to consider how human bodies can move as atoms around a nucleus, how we can rethink the centre and the periphery, and how science is performance.’ Read more

Creative Team

Choreographer: James Batchelor

Performers: James Batchelor, Amber McCartney, Jack Riley, Jacqueline Trapp

Alternate Performers: Natalie Abbott, Chloe Cignell

Visual Design: Annalise Rees

Composition: Morgan Hickinbotham

Lighting Design: Matthew Adey

Producer: Bek Berger

Originally commissioned and produced by Chunky Move through the Next Move program.