My first month in Switzerland, Zurich has been really interesting. Armed with a living allowance, through Pro-Helvetia(http://www.prohelvetia.ch/) I am hosted by the Rote Fabrik (http://www.rotefabik.ch/), who have provided a flat, studio and a platform for interaction with other artists in Switzerland.
Before I arrived I was put into contact with Marisa Godoy of Oona Project a choreographer and dancer working and living in Switzerland. We exchanged ideas on creating and what we have in common and I discovered she originates from Brazil so our issues on funding and creating work on a shoe string budget are the norm. After a few emails she invited me to come sooner to Zurich to watch her rehearsal process for a show called "please" opening in May at Theathre Gesneralle, so with much enthusiasm my residency started on a good note. Having a structure to attend rehearsals that start at 10 am till 5 pm I found it made the first month easy.
It was a flexible agreement that allowed me the luxury to sleep in on days when I could not wake up early.
Having watched her process a lot of questions still remain in my head that I doubt will be answered anytime soon.
Being allowed to watch rehearsals meant that I was constantly in a creative environment. Asking different questions in my head, about the role of performing or the performer and what I beleive to be.
I also watched theatre shows outside of Zurich and at the Rote Fabrik as it is a working cultural house with theatre, concerts and all sorts of other cultural events.
Through this resdency I have been introduced to thinking differently about the creation process and gaining more confidence as an artist.
I have learned the importance of having a "try out". Where a panel is invited to see the show before the real audience sees it. Here there will be a discussion and questions about decisions that make or break the work. This allows for open critism and advise on how the work could perhaps be made better.
I have also learned the value of having resources. My original application for the residency included the opportunity to create without pressure or lack of funding and to be able to discuss my problems with other practitioners .
I am slowly discovering my own process and hope more of my questions will organically answer themselves as I engage in my own rehearsal.
