Trajal Harrell blends ballroom, butoh and theatre in The Romeo.
Imagine that there was a single dance form for everyone - a style that brings people together, regardless of background, age, or gender.
Early in his career, American choreographer Trajal Harrell made a name for himself with performances that blended influences from the Harlem ballroom scene with postmodern dance, voguing, and Japanese butoh. In 2024, he founded his own dance company, Zürich Dance Ensemble. That same year, he was awarded the Silver Lion at the Venice Biennale.
Harrell consistently explores themes such as gender, feminism, and postcolonialism. His performances are playful and hybrid, freely moving between fashion, pop culture, and avant-garde, enriched by a deep knowledge of art and dance history.
In the kaleidoscopic The Romeo, Harrell brings together fifteen stylishly dressed dancers, humour, and captivating music to create a multi-voiced dance blending butoh, ancient Greek theatre, and vibrant choreography.