Zero Degrees (2005)
Premiere: 8 july 2005, Sadler's Wells Theatre, London

'zero degrees is the reference point where everything begins…and everything ends'. Akram Khan

An exciting collaboration between Akram Khan and Sidi Larbi, this is an opportunity to see these remarkable artists working with sculptor Antony Gormley and composer Nitin Sawhney.

Khan and Larbi first met in 2000 when they quickly discovered strong similarities in their work. Both are sons of Islamic families brought up in Europe, and both draw upon this meeting of cultures, combining complex Indian Kathak dance with the speed and precision of contemporary movements.

zero degrees was borne out of their longing to create work together, and follows them on a journey to seek the reference point, the source, the '0' at life's core. Inspired by their own dual identities, the two search for this middle point through polar opposites; becoming/death, light/dark, chaos/order.

Creating the environment for this journey is artist Antony Gormley, most famous for his 'Angel of the North' sculpture. Working closely with the two dancers, his design will reflect the concept of duality explored in zero degrees. Specially commissioned music is by composer/producer Nitin Sawnhey. This is a rare chance to see four of today's greatest artists join forces.

Artistic directors/Choreographers/Performers
Akram Khan and
Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui

Composer
Nitin Sawhney

Lighting Designer
Mikki Kunttn

Sculptor
Antony Gormley

Costume Designer
Kei Ito

Musicians
Tim Blake
Coordt Linke
Faheem Mazhar
Alies Sluiter

Producer
Farooq Chaudhry (Akram Khan Company) and
Lieven Thyrion (Les Ballets C. de la B.)

Dramaturge
Guy Cools

Production Manager
Fabiana Piccioli

Sound Engineer
Jukka Kaven

Stage Manager
Natan Rosseel

Casts
Steve Haynes

Text
Akram Khan