For Promoters / Current Productions / Machine Dance / Traction

Captive
Broken
Scattered
Large Scale Spectacle
Machine Dance
Traction
Waiting Game
Cascade
Underground
Chaser

Traction

Motionhouse is a leading force in British dance theatre. We tour extensively internationally, create large scale spectacles and also specialise in creating bespoke Machine Dance productions that unite performers and JCB diggers in beautifully poignant yet highly physical events. These ‘Machine Dances’ draw on the strength yet vulnerability of the human form and the unlikely tenderness of the machines to deliver extraordinary spectacles for outdoor presentation.

Traction is our newest show in the series and was commissioned by Bullring Birmingham as a climactic celebration to launch a new development to the shopping centre complex.

Traction is a stunning Transformers-esque performance that sees 6 dancers and 3 JCB diggers dancing together with extreme acrobatic partnering, animaline strength and startling unison phrases. Traction bursts forth in a high voltage celebration of the powerful harmony of humans and machines and is at once impossibly emotive and theatrically unforgettable, defying gravity and suspending disbelief.

Traction premiered in November 2011 and was performed in both daylight and under striking lights at night. In May 2013 Traction will be recreated ona  French beach as part of Marseilles-Provence Capital of Culture Celebations.

Here’s a brief overview of our technical requirements for the show.

Technical Information

• Minimum of 2 days rehearsal in the performance area prior to presentation
• Minimum performance area 20m x 20m
• Minimum height clearance 7.6m
• Running time: 20 mins
• For outdoor day or night performance with audience on 3 sides
• Health & Safety support and stewards required
• Hire of 3 JCB 3CX machines
• Number of performers: 6
• Number of machine operators: 3
• Number of people on tour: 11

If you'd like to request a DVD of the show, receive further information about Traction or discuss pricing contact our Programme Manager Jo Valentine by emailing Jo@motionhouse.co.uk or by calling +44(0)1926 887 052. Traction can be adapted for each location alternatively we can develop Machine Dances for bespoke events, specially created for your festival or occasion.