Just over three years ago, choreographer David Bolger of CoisCéim Dance Theatre got the usual ping on his mobile —a message incoming. But this one hit different – it was from jazz percussionist Conor Guilfoyle. Guilfoyle, deeply connected to rhythm, had been struck by the idea that playing the drums was, in essence, a form of dance. And with that, the two sparked off a collaboration, blending their passions for sound, movement, and rhythm.
Bolger had been exploring the science of sound—how vibrations and frequencies affect human emotions and behavior. This aligned perfectly with Guilfoyle’s vision of rhythm as a form of communication beyond just sound. Together, they embarked on a unique experiment, delving into how the dancers’ bodies could not only respond to music but create an atmosphere that transcended the rehearsal space. They explored the profound connection between motion and sound waves, ultimately crafting The Piece with The Drums.
This production offers a dazzling experience for lovers of and anyone curious about jazz music and dance. CoisCéim Dance Theatre, one of Ireland’s premier dance companies, is now bringing their critically acclaimed show to audiences across the country, with a seven-venue national tour, 18 October – 20 November.
Beginning the tour in The MAC as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival, CoisCéim will also be performing closer to Dublin at Draíocht, Blanchardstown (26 Oct), The Civic, Tallaght (15 &16 Nov), Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire (20 Nov).
Described as “pulsating with theatrical magic,” The Piece with The Drums premiered in January 2023 to rave reviews, the show has captivated audiences with its dynamic fusion of jazz-era sound and cutting-edge dance. For Bolger, “this show pushes the boundaries of how we experience music and dance. It’s a witty, uplifting fifty-minutes that connects us with both artforms, as well as with life and the cosmos itself.”
It marks CoisCéim’s first collaboration with Ireland’s renowned jazz musician, Conor Guifoyle, whose illustrious career includes work with the legendary American jazz-rock guitarist Larry Coryell. Guilfoyle is no stranger to innovation, having lectured at prestigious institutions such as Berklee College of Music. He describes the creation of the show as a deeply enriching experience: “One of the joys of being a drummer is watching how people physically react to rhythm. But seeing the dancers interpret and groove to my beats takes it to another level.”
Featuring dazzling solo performances by top contemporary dancers Justine Cooper, Ivonne Kalter, Jonathan Mitchell, Alex O’Neill, and Donking Rongavilla, this edition of The Piece with The Drums promises to be a visual and auditory feast. The tour is also part of CoisCéim Dance Theatre’s special anniversary programme celebrating its 30th year, highlighting the company’s pivotal role in shaping contemporary dance in Ireland since its founding in 1995.
Full Tour Dates:
- The MAC, Belfast International Arts Festival (18 & 19 October)
- The Everyman, Cork in collaboration with Firkin Crane (23 October)
- Draíocht, Blanchardstown (26 October)
- An Grianán, Letterkenny (7 November)
- Town Hall Theatre, Galway (12 November)
- The Civic Theatre, Tallaght (15 & 16 November)
- Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire (20 November)
For booking & more please see: coisceim.com/productions/the-piece-with-the-drums/
