KNØ is a work crew consisting of six dancers and three large canvas paintings that form a collective of bodily labour. KNØ is based on the idea that human existence is primarily maintained by activities such as collecting, carrying, keeping, and sharing. Touch, and the exploration of needs and desires through touch, are central to this piece.

Through simple yet complex interactions the team interewave and thest the interdependence of bodies and bodies of work. With backs and knees that withstand different loads, they push and are pushed, fold and become folded, carry and are carried. A soft struggle that conveys ideas of working with art and working with care.

KNØ premiered at the former site of the Munch Museum in Oslo, 26 August 2023.

CREDIT

Concept/choreography: Ingeleiv Berstad and Pernille Holden Concept/costume/set-design: Signe Becker
Composer: Stine Janvin
Co-creating performers: Terje Tjøme Mossige, Rina Rosenqvist, Mathias Stoltenberg, Jens Trinidad, Pernille Holden, Ingeleiv Berstad. Dramaturge: Melanie Fieldseth
Sound design: Christian Obermayer The paintings are painted by Toril Skipnes, Anita Gundersen, Camilla Lilleengen og Frode Holgersen
Photo and teaser: Tale Hedenes
Video: Maja Wilhite Hannisdal
Producer: Eva Grainger
Production assistent: Sunniva Fliflet
Produced by: Bananaz – forening for Scenekunst
Supported by: Norsk Kulturråd, ffuk and Dansens Hus - Oslo

KNØ unfolds as an almost didactic study on the relationship between six bodies and three canvases and makes us aware of the joys of labour and the messy meaning of collectivity.”

“The dancers ́ ways of approaching one another is quite gentle as if there is something intimate and precious at stake. I think of the verb «to gather» and how it resembles the word «together». These actions, full of effort, are humorously encouraged by the other dancers, something that creates a rupture with the previous part.”

Ilse Ghekiere, Shakespearetidsskrift.no