Italian and New Zealand Choreographers Win Commissions for New Works at Venice Festival

Italian choreographer Andrea Salustri and New Zealand dancer-choreographer Oli Mathiesen have been selected as winners of national and international commissions for new choreographic works. The selection was made by director Wayne McGregor from 695 applications, including 119 from Italy and 576 from abroad. Their world premieres will take place at the 20th International Festival of Contemporary Dance in Venice, running from July 17 to August 1. Salustri's piece, titled 'Invisible,' explores intangible elements like light and air, while Mathiesen's 'Just Between Me and Jesus' is a provocative physical work blending club culture and religious imagery with queer critique. Both artists bring interdisciplinary backgrounds, with Salustri known for object manipulation and Mathiesen for cross-disciplinary performance.