MIND THE GAP

NON VERBAL: Dance.

The performance dives poetically into the complex reality of queer relationships and reveals the gap between the private and the public. Two performers negotiate the tension-field within their relationship, the space between self-perception and public opinion, and question stereotypical images of queer people.

MIND THE GAP invites the audience—through compelling choreography and humorous interaction — to experience the emotional and physical dynamics of a partnership from up close. The dance theatre duo opens a space for reflection on equality, intimacy, and the challenges that shape every
relationship. 

The piece was developed on the basis of interviews with members of the queer community. The performance represents these voices by negotiating these shared experiences. Beyond the queer perspective, MIND THE GAP fundamentally depicts general limitations of personal freedom. It addresses the ways in which we restrict ourselves and others through norms and expectations — regardless of gender or orientation.

BACKGROUND and INTENTION

The choreography was developed in reference to an extensive research aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the current situation of queer people in our society. “Do you feel free to live, to be, and to act as you wish?” was one of the guiding principles among the central questions in these conversations.

How far has equality truly progressed in our society? The performance attempts to make these experiences and the challenges of queer lived reality tangible, and to convey their impact on a relationship between two people. 

MIND THE GAP focuses on the fraught interplay between intimacy and prejudice, on the space between two individuals and the perspective from outside. Where does the private begin and when does it become political? Two performers meet in a relationship, in a space that is both familiar and safe, yet also disrupted by external influences. The piece invites the audience to immerse themselves in this fragile zone – where relationship begins, and society watches. Please, mind the gap! In the gap between the two bodies, between them and the audience, between those present and the world outside, a pulsating field of tension emerges: an abyss, a vacuum. Within this intimate setting, the audience becomes part of an exploration of tenderness, everyday life, distance and the act of rebuilding one another. The dancers roll, throw, catch, support – fall, hold each other, doubt, balance, and take risks... and finally, they dance quietly together, just for themselves – offering a sensual, immediate statement.

The topic is especially relevant for young people. Therefore, school performances have met successful resonance, especially combined with workshops on the topic and dance theatre, have proven as a good way to involve young audiences in a participatory way.

It is essentially not about sexuality – but about the attraction to another person. The gender of that person is irrelevant; what human relationships of any kind rely on is finding common ground, having fun together, facing challenges as a team, sometimes arguing, and learning to handle conflicts. Added to this is pressure from the outside: disruptions, comments, judgments – which can also affect a harmonious existence. This external interference, which anyone can experience regardless of gender or sexuality, is the focus. Without actively taking an activist stance on same-sex relationships, it simply exists. It is present as a constant part of our shared lives, without needing to shout about it.