Happy New Year from Annabelle Bonnéry & Carte Blanche!
As we look back on 2024, we celebrate a year of creative milestones and shared moments with our audiences. From the debut of Retro Cat to the restaging of iconic works and preparations for our new home at Sentralbadet, this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. Join us as we reflect on the highlights of 2024 and look ahead to an exciting 2025.
The year 2024 has been significant for Retro Cat, a piece created by artist Tori Wrånes, which had a remarkable debut at the Bergen International Festival. This was followed by a national tour, with performances in major venues across Norway, from Stavanger to Hammerfest, with additional stops in Bodø, Oslo, and Verdal. Sold-out shows in Bergen during the Bergen International Festival and Oktoberdans, as well as at Dansens Hus in Oslo, reflected the strong interest in this unique and poetic work. The 20 school performances held this autumn also captivated young audiences.
In 2024, we brought new energy to the restagings of beloved works. But Then We’ll Disappear (I’d Prefer Not To) by Canadian choreographer Frédérick Gravel was revisited in January, when Frédérick refined the piece after two years. It then embarked on a regional tour in Vestland, concluding with three successful performances at the prestigious Mercat de les Flors in Barcelona. Sovaco de Cobra by Lander Patrick returned to the stage, bringing its dynamic energy to audiences in Switzerland and France. The Monument 0.10: The Living Monument by Eszter Salamon was performed at the renowned Julidans Festival in Amsterdam. This exceptional work continues to resonate with audiences.
Looking ahead, 2025 holds exciting promises, and we are in full swing with two new productions! In December, we began collaborating with the talented choreographers Katerina Andreou and Jan Martens, whose premieres are scheduled for March and May 2025.
Throughout the year, Carte Blanche has offered a wide range of ways to connect with audiences. From performances and post-show discussions to open rehearsals, dance workshops, reflective talks, family activities, and contact improvisation jams, there was something for everyone to explore contemporary dance. We also hosted the Pernille Award Evening 2024, a memorable event featuring the remarkable Mimi Devine and the Carte Blanche team.
On October 16th, we marked an important milestone with the symbolic foundation stone for Sentralbadet. As construction continues, preparations for our move and the building’s opening year are well underway. We are eagerly imagining the future of Carte Blanche and BIT Teatergarasjen in this dynamic new space.
We look forward to welcoming you back in 2025 for another year of inspiring dance, creativity, and connection!
Wishing you a happy New Year,
Annabelle Bonnéry,
Artistic Director of Carte Blanche