Rooted in Butoh's philosophy, where the body is danced rather than dancing, this practice focuses on cultivating an empty body/mind—allowing movement to emerge from spirit, energy, and imagination. I will introduce somatic techniques that inspire my work, including Noguchi Taiso (a Japanese technique emphasizing fluid, effortless movement) and Body Weather psychosomatic training (MB: Mind/Body - Muscles/Bones), to develop sensitivity and receptivity in the body.
Exploring improvisation as a gateway to the subconscious, this practice helps retrieve deep, intuitive information for creative work. Participants will engage in Butoh-inspired exercises that guide them into altered states of perception, where imagery and sensation become sources for movement exploration.
Offering guidance for the development of dance pieces or other creative ideas, Vir Torres will provide tools for both individual and group creation. This includes structured improvisation, composition strategies, and reflective practices to help shape and refine artistic work.
Practices to bring us to that space where we are witnessed, sharing our dance, our existence.
Vir Torres — Dancer and Somatic Researcher
Vir Torres is an independent artist, dancer, and performer based in Portugal, currently exploring Asia through various artistic projects. Her diverse training spans Flamenco and Spanish classical dance, later evolving into Butoh and improvisational movement (including Contact Improvisation). This journey reflects her ongoing pursuit of originality and authenticity in expression, positioning her as an experimental artist.
Vir has choreographed and directed a series of striking solo pieces, including Amatista and Buenos Aires (2021), as well as Chinamasta and Autumn Roses (2023). Her latest creation, Autumn Roses, continues to tour internationally in 2024, with performances in Thailand and France. As a performer, Vir collaborated with Mamu DanceTheatre under the direction of renowned Butoh artist Tadashi Endo in 2022, participating in productions in Germany. In 2024, she joined the production BoB (Beauty of Butoh) directed by Marlene Jobstl, further showcasing her ability to merge cultural traditions with contemporary experimental practices.
Her latest creation, Borboleta do Céu e da Terra, was developed as part of the Residency Program in collaboration with Shinehouse Theatre in Taipei, Taiwan. This piece premiered on December 27 in Taipei and has been performed multiple times in Thailand in the following months.
Vir’s work embodies a deep exploration of movement, rooted in both the visceral and the metaphysical. Her choreographic voice draws from rich traditions while breaking boundaries, creating a unique space for artistic innovation and profound emotional resonance.
Subsidized rate (for low-income applicants): from €190/week (includes food)
Sliding scale: from €345/week (includes food)
Accommodation cost is additional.