Carlos Pons Guerra explores the work of Tom of Finland in Yorkshire Dance's 'Sketch'

Tom of Finland, cruising, and the ballet Giselle: oh my! Choreographer Carlos Pons Guerra will be in the studio researching all of the above as part of Sketch, a professional development programme designed by Yorkshire Dance. Through the eight months of the scheme, Carlos, one of the six dance artists chosen by Yorkshire Dance and industry professionals, will continue his research into the work of erotic gay cartoonist Tom of Finland, which began with his inaugural piece for DeNada Dance Theatre, Young Man!, alongside research into the history of gay men's cruising in the UK, all framed within his fascination towards romanticism, and in particular, the ballet Giselle.

Sketch will enable artists to research and develop a new dance idea with a focus on dramaturgical practice supported by international dramaturg Peggy Olislaegers, with support through the reflective process from Richard Sobey. The project will culminate in early February 2015. http://www.yorkshiredance.com/professional/work-we-support/sketch

As well as Yorkshire Dance, Pons Guerra will be supported in his research by the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, and will receive mentoring support from Gary Everett, artistic director of Homotopia Festival, Liverpool. 

Launch Event

Sketch will be launched on Tuesday 9 September 2014, at Leeds Gallery, Munro House, Leeds, with an event where you can meet the artists and hear more about their projects. For more information about attending the launch, please contact Hollie Harkness-Gowers, hollieharknessgowers@yorkshiredance.com

Watch this space for news on sharings and/or performances of the research. 

Pictured: Carlos Pons Guerra by a Tom of Finland poster. Photo: Simon Harper