Through a fusion of rap-poetry, dance and film, Jonzi D and Jane Sekonya share their experiences of hurricane IVAN in an intimate, small-scale theatre piece
This dramatisation of a very real life experience began for Jonzi and Jane whilst on holiday in Jamaica in September 2004 and being forced to deal with a force 10 hurricane, IVAN. The ferocity of the storm and the fear of not knowing what was going to happen precipitated intense discussion between themselves about their relationship and facing the future -possibly not surviving the storm.
As in all of Jonzi D's work, he brought together a fantastic creative team including direction by acclaimed playwright, author and director Amani Naphtali, original music by saxophonist, producer and composer Jason Yarde, dramaturgy by Gabriel Gbadamosi, additional choreography by H Patten, flying rig by renowned aerial artist Vicki Amedume, one of Jonzi's long-time collaborators.
IVAN was performed as a work in progress in October 2006 as part of a triple-bill featuring Spoti created and performed by Jane Sekonya and Jonzi D’s renowned Aeroplane Man visiting: Lilian Baylis Theatre (London), South Street (Reading), The Albany (London), Arnolfini (Bristol) and Jackson’s Lane (London).
IVAN was co-commissioned by Arnolfini and Hydroponic. The production was also supported by Sadler’s Wells.
Special thanks to: Jonathan Meth, Helen Cole, Alistair Spalding and Emma Dowden.
The company plans re-work the piece and re-mount it for touring sometime in the future.
Credits:
Written and performed by: Jonzi D & Jane Sekonya
Direction: Amani Naphtali
Music & Sound Design: Jason Yarde
Dramaturgy: Gabriel Gbadamosi
Flying Consultant: Vicki Amedume
Bungee counterweight partner: Lila Lifely
Lighting Design & Technical Manager: Pete Watts
Additional Choreography: H Patten
Set Painting: Sollymoose
Voiceover: Shelley Maxwell
Video Footage: Jonzi D & Jane Sekonya