‘PERCEPTIONS’ by choreographer Anna Chiedza Spörri explores how Black men are perceived in Switzerland and how this external gaze affects their self-image. Using choreographic means, Anna Chiedza Spörri and the four dancers analyse the tension between restriction and liberation, between expectations and realities. Therefore, stereotypes and microaggressions, which can lead to violence, are carefully recorded, deconstructed and reflected upon. Dance and spoken word are interwoven to show how racism is experienced and, at the same time, challenge the audience to fundamentally question their own perceptions of Black men.

«Everyday racism influences my image of myself. It influences my behaviour. Perhaps my thinking. I have learned not to react. I have learned to pull myself together. To make myself small. And at the same time, I am expected to show only strength. To take up a lot of space. These are conflicting expectations, an irreconcilable duality.»
Earle Garnette

The performances on 8 and 9 May are part of ZÜRICH TANZT.

Information on accessibility and language 

• Stepless access

• Age: Recommended for ages 12 and up

• Languages: In English, Swiss German, French spoken language with translation via surtitles.

• Content notes: The performance explicitly addresses the experiences of racism faced by men of colour and the psychological strain this causes.

• Lighting: During the entrance, the auditorium is brightly lit. The play begins with a complete blackout. At the back of the stage there are spotlights which occasionally dazzle the front rows of the audience and also shine directly onto the front row. The audience area remains dark throughout the performance. The outline of the room stays visible.

• Sound: Intense, loud music is used repeatedly throughout the performance. At times, the bass is slightly noticeable.

• Other sensory stimuli: At the end of the play, transparent, slightly reflective curtains drop from the ceiling with a clack near the front row, separating the stage from the audience.

• Audience and interaction: Upon entering, the audience is invited to take a card that provides inspiration for experiencing the performance. In one scene, the dancers run towards the audience and stop at the front edge of the stage near row 0. At the end of the piece, PoCs are invited onto the stage.