KALADO

public presentation of the technique
performance length: 60 min
unique movement/espression/dance technique
Describing the Kalado technique is as difficult as explaining the art of Zen. These two have a lot in common; or could it be that they’re one and the same thing?

The Kalado technique is based on demonstrating existing presence, on maximum openness and natural movement. High levels of relaxation and relaxed muscles are joined with strength and explicitness, and enable the motion to be very light and obvious. The voice then naturally opens and accompanies the body in the impulses which come. The technique invokes listening to one’s own body, impulses and rhythms, and opens the possibilities of spontaneity, free of posed or learned stereotypes which often overwhelm us. The simplicity, ease and straightness of expression is fascinating. The basic principle is the use of the vertical which sometimes mysteriously changes into the horizontal, and a great supporting moment lies in the use of the weight of one’s own body and its natural constitution and physiology.

Sai Kijima learned modern dance in Japan where his teacher passed on to him the secrets of Kalado basic movement and taught him the principles of the technique. Sai Kijima later developed it into its present shape. After many performances and projects in Japan, Sai Kijima decided to leave, and is currently based in Switzerland, where he teaches the technique, organises regular summer schools in Greece, Italy etc., participates in various experimental motion and dance projects, video art, is invited to dance conservatoires, etc. Most of his performances do not require much technical support and are based on the use of space as is. Sai Kijima has based his dancing career especially on street performances which he presented in Japan and, following that, all over Europe.