Bullyache Brings Queer Working-Class Erotica to Sadler's Wells
London-based dance duo Bullyache, formed by Courtney Deyn and Jacob Samuel (both 35), premieres their latest stage show "A Good Man Is Hard to Find" at Sadler's Wells East from May 7-9. The work, commissioned by the Venice Dance Biennale, blends dance, theater, self-composed scores, and pop culture, drawing on the duo's working-class backgrounds and queer sexualities. Rehearsals in an East London studio feature dancers in fragmented businesswear performing high-octane movements ranging from ballroom to Martha Graham-style avant-garde. Bullyache's promotional material describes the vibe as "Pina Bausch cosplaying as Dua Lipa." The duo began making music videos and has since shown work in art galleries, choreographed fashion shows, and created dance routines for musicians. Sadler's Wells associate artistic director Rob Jones praised Bullyache's mix of styles as giving the company "an edge."
Key facts
- Bullyache is a London-based dance duo formed by Courtney Deyn and Jacob Samuel, both 35.
- Their latest show is titled "A Good Man Is Hard to Find."
- The show runs at Sadler's Wells East in London from May 7-9.
- The work was commissioned by the Venice Dance Biennale.
- Rehearsals took place in an East London studio with dancers in businesswear.
- The duo's style combines dance, theater, self-composed scores, and pop culture.
- Their work draws on working-class backgrounds and queer sexualities.
- Sadler's Wells associate artistic director Rob Jones praised the duo's edge.
Entities
Artists
- Courtney Deyn
- Jacob Samuel
- Martha Graham
- Pina Bausch
- Dua Lipa
Institutions
- Bullyache
- Sadler's Wells East
- Venice Dance Biennale
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- East London
- Venice
- Italy