How close are we really? This question runs like a red thread through the dance evening “Next to Me”, which can be seen at the Regensburg Theater. In a unique interplay of dance, costume, stage and light, everyday life is translated into metaphorical movement – inspiring closeness and distance. The HANRO underwear is an integral part of the artistic concept. It is a visible part of the costumes and symbolises the transition from outer layers to the inner essence of the human being.

In the interview, choreographer Gabriel Pitoni gives insights into his latest work and, together with set and costume designer Manuel Marte, talks about the collaboration with HANRO.

WHAT IS ‘NEXT TO ME’ ABOUT?
‘Next to Me’ is all about people and their relationships – how we move, fit in or consciously distance ourselves within a society. Everyday situations such as sitting together at the table or waiting for a train are reinterpreted in stories and connected with each other through movements. The central message: a person is only a person through other people.’

WHAT STYLE OF DANCE DO WE SEE IN ‘NEXT TO ME’?
‘The choreography combines contemporary dance and modern elements, paired with electronic and neoclassical music. Each section has its own style – like life itself.’

WHO IS PERFORMING IN THE PRODUCTION
– A FIXED COMPANY OR SOLOISTS?
‘The dancers are part of the Theater Regensburg dance company. It is a very young cast, with many new talents from America, Japan and Austria. For many of them, it is their first major project, and it is great to see how much energy and dedication they are putting into it.’

THE INTERPLAY OF CHOREOGRAPHY, COSTUME AND STAGE

For Gabriel Pitoni, the connection between choreography, music, costume, stage and lighting is essential. ‘If one of these is not right, it can destroy the entire work.’ This is where Manuel Marte comes in, who, as a designer, is responsible not only for the costumes but also for the stage and the lighting concept. ‘It was a great opportunity. This rare combination creates a tangible unity,’ says Manuel Marte, whose love of minimalist and transformable design has significantly influenced the piece.

WHAT WAS IMPORTANT TO YOU IN THE COSTUMES?

‘The costumes should make the dancers' movements visible and at the same time be part of the story. The idea of layers was central to this: the dancers wear three layers, which are gradually removed. One layer always remains behind – like a snake shedding its skin.’

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE HANRO PRODUCTS? ‘HANRO's

The underwear was a perfect match for our concept. This piece is about closeness, intimacy and the transition from the outer facade to the core of a person. HANRO's high-quality, sustainable underwear represents exactly that. The fabrics are comfortable to wear and the dancers felt very comfortable in them – this is crucial for a dance production.’ 

(Click here to see the ‘Touch Feeling’ and ‘Micro Touch’ underwear) 

‘NEXT TO ME‘ – A COMPLETE WORK OF ART 

'Next to Me’ is more than dance – it is a mirror of life. Gabriel Pitoni and Manuel Marte impressively show closeness, distance and the beauty of human relationships. An evening full of feeling, movement and intimacy that should not be missed.

Click here to see the show dates)

Fotos: © Marie Liebig

Photo: © Nils Schwarz

GABRIEL PITONI

The German-Italian choreographer Gabriel Pitoni moved to Berlin after completing his dance training and various further training courses in Rome and Milan. Here, parallel to his commitments as a dancer and choreographer, he completed a degree in art direction at the Berlin Design Academy. His works combine a wide range of choreographic approaches and various musical styles.