Barbara Segal, Frank Perenboom baroque dance/mime Sara Stowe soprano/harpsichord plus musicians (numbers according to fee paid)

Songs and dances from the baroque theatre are the speciality of Contretemps. With two lavishly costumed dancers and a trio of widely experienced musicians they recreate the elegance and charm of a vanished world, from the ballroom to the opera stage. Its programmes combine a wide repertoire of small-scale chamber music together with formal dances (based on original period choreographies) and commedia dell’arte to create a witty and entertaining performance style. Since its formation in 1985, Contretemps has performed widely throughout Europe. It has also choreographed and performed in full-scale productions of baroque operas, many with British Council or Arts Council funding.

Sample Programme:

Baroque Reflections: In this programme, trio and solo sonatas by Rameau, Marais, Couperin and others are coupled with the dances of 18th century dancing masters. Fully staged and with Commedia interludes this provides an entertaining programme suitable for a wide audience.

Education:

An introduction to baroque dance in the form of a lecture recital is available along with practical classes from beginner to advanced level. This can be tailored to suit a wide range of music and other societies.

Recordings:

Demo and video available

Performances:

17 Feb 07 Vevey, Switzerland
5 May 07 New College, Oxford
10 Aug 07 Krakow, Poland

Contact:

Barbara Segal, 3 Thornhill Square,
Islington, London N1 1BQ

Tel: 020 7700 4293
Fax: 020 7700 5877

Email: barbara.segal@thorn.demon.co.uk Website: www.chalemie.co.uk