Centre Stage: Carlos Pons Guerra Interview with One Dance UK

Welcome to Centre Stage where we celebrate the diverse and innovative work of our members! Each month, following a different theme, we’re going to take a look at what our members are doing to support and improve the dance sector. We’re going to chat to a wide range of people who are working in the dance world, and film insights into what they get up to. So, why not take a break from your day and get inspired or maybe learn something new about dance! 

In keeping with our focus on LGBTQ+ History month, this week, we hear from Carlos Pons Guerra. Carlos, Director of DeNada Dance Theatre, often explores themes of gender and sexual identity in his work. His latest project is a show called Mariposa- a transgender tragedy inspired by Madame Butterfly which considers the sacrifices those within the LGBTQ+ community often have to make to be loved and to be their true selves. Mariposa has been commissioned by Birmingham Dance Hub and Spin Arts, with further support from DanceXchange and The British Council. In this interview, Carlos talks about why he chooses to focus on themes of gender and sexuality in his work, the need for more queer narratives to be seen on stage, and why he thinks dance in the best way to communicate these ideas.