Choreographic Crossings

Dance

This choreographic creation project fosters an artistic collaboration between Normandy and Ireland, drawing inspiration from a shared historical episode: the sea crossing of Richard de Clare, known as Strongbow, who landed in Ireland in 1170.

This historical reference is reinterpreted through a contemporary lens, not as a story of conquest, but as a starting point for exploring encounter, dialogue and cooperation between territories.

The project is built around a collaborative residency involving choreographers Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh (Normandy) and Siobhán Ní Dhuinnín (Ireland), in partnership with Le Fruit Intégral in Andé (Normandy) and Dance Cork Firkin Crane in Cork. Its originality lies in the central role given to travel: the creative process begins aboard the ferry linking Cherbourg and Rosslare Harbour, transformed into a space for research, exchange and experimentation. Performances and choreographic interventions punctuate the crossing and accompany passengers throughout the journey.

In May 2027, dancers from Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh’s company are welcomed in residence in Cork, where their creation is presented to Irish audiences. In return, Siobhán Ní Dhuinnín undertakes a residency in Normandy, culminating in a presentation during the WEI! Week-End Intégral Festival in September 2027.

Both artists share a reflection on the relationships between body, landscape and territory. Their creations explore maritime memories, human mobility and the shared narratives linking Normandy and Ireland, while offering new perspectives on the spaces traversed. Within this framework, a performance by Pavillon-s may also take place at Barryscourt Castle, built by a Norman family, creating a dialogue between heritage and contemporary creation. A residency or presentation of Siobhán Ní Dhuinnín’s work at the Centre Culturel Irlandais (Paris) is also being considered to extend the collaboration and broaden its visibility.

Beyond the artistic creation itself, the project includes an extensive cultural engagement programme, featuring workshops, talks, school initiatives and knowledge-sharing activities throughout its different phases.

Supported by a network of cultural, heritage and educational partners in France and Ireland, the project strengthens ties between the two territories and highlights choreographic creation as a vehicle for exchange, circulation of ideas and European openness.

Practical Information

 Free admission

 Open to all audiences

Cooperation France / Ireland 

Partners: Dance Cork Firkin Crane (Cork, Ireland), Barryscourt Castle (Cork, Ireland), Siobhán Ní Dhuinnín (Cork, Ireland), Pavillon-s – Le Fruit Intégral (Andé, Normandy), Le Moulin d’Andé (Andé, Normandy), and the Centre Culturel Irlandais (Paris, France).