Choreographic crossings

This choreographic project creates an artistic partnership between Normandy and Ireland through a shared chapter of history: the sea crossing of Richard de Clare, known as Strongbow, who landed in Ireland in 1170. Reimagined through a contemporary lens, this historical reference serves not as a story of conquest, but as a starting point for exploring encounter, dialogue, and cooperation between territories.

The project is built around an artistic exchange between choreographers Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh (Normandy) and Siobhán Ní Dhuinnín (Ireland), in partnership with Le Fruit Intégral in Andé (France) and Dance Cork Firkin Crane in Cork.

A distinctive feature of the project is the central role of travel in the creative process. The artistic journey begins aboard the ferry linking Cherbourg and Rosslare Harbour, transformed into a space for research, exchange, and experimentation. Choreographic interventions and performances take place throughout the crossing, accompanying passengers and inviting new perspectives on the shared maritime route.

In May 2027, the dancers of Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh will take part in a residency in Cork, culminating in a public presentation of their work for Irish audiences. In return, Siobhán Ní Dhuinnín will undertake a residency in Normandy, with a presentation of her work during the WEI! Week-end Intégral Festival in September 2027.

Both artists share a strong interest in the relationships between body, landscape, and territory. Their creations explore maritime memories, human journeys, and the stories that connect Normandy and Ireland, while offering fresh ways of experiencing and understanding the places through which people travel.

As part of this programme, a performance by Pavillon-s may also take place at Barryscourt Castle, built by a Norman family, creating a meaningful dialogue between heritage and contemporary creation.

The partnership is further extended through plans for a residency and/or presentation of Siobhán Ní Dhuinnín's work at the Centre Culturel Irlandais in Paris, broadening the project's visibility and strengthening artistic exchange between France and Ireland.

Beyond the performances themselves, the project includes an extensive programme of cultural engagement. Workshops, discussions, school activities, and opportunities for artistic transmission accompany each stage of the project, encouraging participation and dialogue with a wide range of audiences.

Supported by a network of cultural, heritage, and educational partners in both France and Ireland, the project strengthens connections between the two territories and highlights contemporary dance as a powerful tool for sharing ideas, fostering exchange, and building European cooperation.

Practical information

Suitable for all audiences

Free admission

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), Centre Culturel Irlandais (Paris, France)