‘Limen’ in Latin means threshold and it represents the stage of depression. However difficult and repulsing, this is often the biggest catalyst. Starting off with chaotic, repetitive yet frantic movements the piece slowly progresses into heavier textures and solemn energy. The performers are played back-to-back; they cannot interact in any way, they’re left on their own. Creation of dancer’s costume was inspired by the brutal history of ostracising people deemed as “sinful” by rolling them in hot tar and feathers. Interestingly enough, this practice is still in use in some parts of the world, one of the latest being Northern Ireland in 2007 (read more).
The journey of the piece started from Alex Ferkey performing solo in various venues including Old Royal Navy Chapel. We have recorded the piece and we will be releasing it early next year. The piece can be performed solo in acoustic setting without any extras. As a composer I would imagine it being played in relatively intimate surroundings as there are a lot of sounds that need silence to be heard (pizzicato harmonics, molto sul pont. bowing on pp to name the few). This recording is of live performance at Blackheath Halls from June 2024, and it includes choreographed movement by Valentina Vidal and live electronics:
Together with Alex and Val we have turned ‘Limen’ into a contemporary dance piece. We’ve spent endless time in rehearsal discussing what should happen and where according to music or at times in contrast with it. Valentina was also supported with directions from Izzy Rabey. Alex always describes Limen as a point between conscious and subconscious – to me is also the moment of transformation- the catalyst; stillness that leads to movement; ‘down’ to bounce back from; perhaps sitting with one’s feelings and finding oneself again…
Leave a Reply