Bitela (little bee)

One of the central themes of this work is a connection/disconnect from nature, and its consequences for the current state of our civilization. In this sense, our environmental crisis is equally a spiritual one, reflected in aesthetics and our sense of beauty. In Bitela, Dominyka (flute performer) grapples with this theme by building a free improvisation from ancient Sutartinės melodies, hypnotic Lithuanian folk songs which describe and reflect their deep traditional relationship with nature (Lithuania was the last Pagan society in Europe). The longing for this connection and the pain caused by harsh urban environments, including the Soviet “sleeping communities” of her hometown, are expressed through her spontaneous sound creation and choreographed movement together with a dancer. Sounds are created through the flute and voice, and the audience is welcome to join as performers move in the circle or view them from the steps above, with the city, hills and mountains behind them. The tension between the built environment and nature visible from the Overlook influences and deepens the particular mood of the space and time being channeled into the improvisation, and provides a perfectly fitting backdrop.

Performed at Heidi Duckler Dance - Ebb&Flow Festival 2022

Performers: Dominyka Šeibok, Jobel Medina

Composer, Filmmaker: Daniel Goldblum

Photos: Denise Leitner, Rush Varela