Rambert has announced the early development of It’s A Sin, a major new dance work inspired by the award‑winning Channel 4 series. The production is being created in partnership with Factory International, with Russell T Davies and Pet Shop Boys serving as Executive Producers.
Choreographed and directed by Rambert Artistic Director Benoit Swan Pouffer, the project continues his collaboration with dramaturg Kaite O’Reilly, who is developing the script.
The production will expand the world of the original drama, which followed a group of young gay men and their friends as the HIV/AIDS crisis emerged in the 1980s. Rambert promises an immersive and visceral theatrical experience told through contemporary dance, archive material and cinematic visuals.
Music will be composed by Roman GianArthur, whose work includes collaborations with Janelle Monáe, with support from Executive Producers Pet Shop Boys. Set and video design will be created by Luke Halls Studio.
On announcing the production, Benoit Swan Pouffer said: “Storytelling sits at the heart of Rambert’s mission. This is a story we feel compelled to tell right now, and collaborating with Russell – one of the most powerful storytellers of our time — is incredibly exciting. Together we’re exploring how dance and choreography can carry urgent, emotional narratives in a visceral way. I can’t wait to share this with audiences, and there is so much more still to come as the work evolves.”
Russell T Davies added: “It’s A Sin was such a special show for me, and it’s one of the greatest honours of my life to have the show transformed by Rambert into something new and exciting.”
Pet Shop Boys commented: “The original TV drama was a landmark series which compellingly presented the reality and tragedy of the Aids crisis to a mass audience. Our song ‘It’s a sin’ was contemporary with the crisis and we are proud to be involved as this poignant and important story is interpreted in a different medium.”
Factory International Artistic Director and CEO John McGrath said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Rambert on this thrilling new project. Russel T Davies is an icon, and the story he tells in It’s a Sin has resonated with all ages. Rambert will no doubt re-tell the story with great vision and beauty. We can’t wait to premier this collaboration at our home, Aviva Studios, before sharing it with an exceptional group of national and international co-producers.”
Full venue, casting and performance details will be announced later in the year.
More information can be found here
