PONTIS by Marie Zechiel

PONTIS is a site-specific performance conceptualized and directed by movement director Marie Zechiel. Commissioned by Berlin Club Commission, this piece was created specifically for Tag der Clubkultur and served as the opening performance for the prestigious award show at Metropol Berlin. The title PONTIS, meaning bridge in Latin, aptly captures the essence of the performance, which sought to demonstrate the deep and intricate connections between culture and club culture. In Berlin, clubs are not just spaces for nightlife; they are cultural institutions that foster creativity, community, and expression. Through PONTIS, Marie sought to highlight this relationship by weaving together elements of traditional performance art with the dynamic, vibrant energy of club culture. Marie choreographed a 20-minute piece for six dancers, meticulously crafting movements that embodied the fluidity and resilience of Berlin’s cultural landscape. The performance was designed to reflect the ongoing dialogue between various forms of artistic expression and the unique subculture found within Berlins clubs. By doing so, PONTIS created a metaphorical bridge, uniting these two worlds in a powerful, visually captivating narrative. The choreography was a blend of contemporary dance and techno elements, allowing the dancers to explore the space around them and interact with the audience in an immersive experience. Each movement was carefully considered to symbolize the exchange of energy, ideas, and emotions that are central to both cultural and club settings. The performance’s site-specific nature added another layer of meaning, as the dancers utilized the architecture and atmosphere of Metropol Berlin, transforming the venue into a living canvas. Marie Zechiel s role in PONTIS was not just as a choreographer but as a visionary who understood the pulse of Berlins cultural heartbeat. Her direction brought to life a performance that was not only a tribute to the citys rich cultural heritage but also a celebration of its ever-evolving club scene. PONTIS stood as a testament to Marie Zechiel s ability to create meaningful, site-specific art that resonates with both the performers and the audience, bridging the gap between diverse artistic realms.