Exit

Quest for rest

The right to be lazy! Paul Lafargue, son-in-law of Karl Marx, was already advocating this in 1880. He was preceded by many philosophers. However, it will still take a lot of effort to have this recognised as a human right. In recent years our world has become even more agitated and hectic. What is the value of relaxation, rest, peace, sleep and laziness in our society? More than ever we are caught up in the compulsion of producing and consuming! Heiner Müller wrote that what we really need to unwind is a time that ‘frei ist von Konsum’ (free from consumption).  

The quest for rest plays a central role in EXIT. Kris Verdonck and his companions examine how light, sound, movement, language, image, stage design etc. influence the spectator’s sensory perceptions and his mental attitude. To what extent are artists able to manipulate the spectators (sub)conscious or nervous system using these theatrical means?  

A performance that is like a beneficial rest cure!
 

« Simple enough in theory, yet surprisingly beautiful and mysterious in practice. […]. The dancer’s total concentration and serenity as she moved through the choreography became almost tangible, spreading like a blanket over the room. » Tresca Weinstein in Times Union (NY)