On Saturday 7^th September a group of dancers – including some EncoreEast members – will be sharing the final performance of Bird at Whin Hill, Minsmere at 1 and 2pm.

Building on the initial choreographic ideas, a longer piece has been developed that incorporates elements of birdsong, behaviour and relationships. This thematic focus continues to inform the creative process. The group have been fortunate to collaborate with professional musician David Dutfield, who has created the soundtrack for the performance.

David Dutfield is a musician, composer, and producer based in London. He began his career as a radio jingle writer and now specializes in composing music for dance and drama for stage and film. His collaboration with choreographer Lyn Matthews on ‘Bird’ has sparked his interest in ambient music.

RSPB Minsmere will film the event as part of their ongoing widening participation program, capturing the people’s movement of nature and wild spaces. This documentation will contribute to promoting community engagement with the natural environment.

In a world where birds and humans coexist within the same ever-changing climate, both face the looming spectre of climate change. Amidst these shared challenges, the rhythm of daily life persists undaunted. This is the compelling backdrop for ‘Bird.’ With the picturesque Minsmere as our canvas, ‘Bird’ artfully weaves the tapestry of avian existence, harnessing the ethereal beauty of bird songs, their intricate behaviours, and the unique relationships they forge with their environment. Join us as we translate these mesmerizing elements into a captivating dance of nature and movement.

Lyn Matthews