Created as a tribute to choreographer Tanja Liedtke, a rising star in the Australian dance scene whose life was tragically cut short in 2007, on the eve of her appointment as Artistic Director of Sydney Dance Company.

The work is led by award-winning choreographer James Batchelor, who reflected “how do you honour a legacy you’re not part of” and invited dancers who worked closely with Liedtke to contribute to the project. Performed by an intergenerational cast of sixteen, including students from Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional Year (PPY), it considers not only Liedtke’s influence but also the continuation of her artistic spirit.

Batchelor spent three years researching and developing Resonance, delving into rehearsal and performance archives and meeting with those who knew her best.

This is a raw production contemporary production, with no fixed narrative. The abstract work recognises Liedtke’s creative process and techniques. Movements dissect the body with mechanical precision — breaking down muscular shifts, testing endurance and embracing discomfort. The intensity feels cathartic, as the dancers share their memories of performing for her.

The collective moves in slow-motion, not interacting but following the same wave-like pattern. The soundscape begins ethereal and hypnotic. Gradually, the tempo rises,  the beat becomes louder and almost animatronic, the dancers accelerate. They run, rush, and collide in a frenzy, until finally, they entwine — caressing, comforting, finding connection.

Staged at Sydney Dance Company foyer with are no props or staging. Dancers perform in their everyday attire, distinguished only by sheer coloured coverings. The audience sits backs against the wall, surrounding the performers. The result is a communal experience.

Resonance recognises the dancer’s body as a living archive, beautifully described as a choreographic echo across generations, highlighting how dance has the potential for endless life.

Note: As this work is presented as a tribute rather than a conventional production, no star rating is offered. Instead, Resonance is honoured as a moving reminder of dance’s ability to carry memory across generations.

Presented by FORM Dance Projects. Learn more through FORM’s site