Mary Pearson (US/UK)
Performance maker and dancer/researcher.
Using CI and related somatic practices, comedy, images and materials, voice and text. Toured solos FAILURE, The Sand Dog Cometh, and FoMO, mofos! internationally 2012-18. B.A. Visual Art/English Literature, Oberlin College (US). Attended Kiklos International School of Physical Theatre Creation (IT). Fascinated by collaboration as a complex and coordinated practice in survival. (This is not a solo). Loves to design frames as much as their contents. A co- curator/organiser/founder of Con|VERGE, REMIX collaborative performance residencies at Ponderosa Dance (DE), Raw, Roar, Rare festival and If only…! performance series at the Bluecoat (UK), Fool’s Proof Theatre Company (2006-11. R.I.P.) Teaching improvisation as a FAILURE Lab. Busy learning how trauma is held in the nervous system (Somatic Experiencing). Bringing this into meaningful action via performance research on collectively embodied trauma.
Alena Kudera (CZ/UK)
Garment and accessory designer/maker. Creating uniquely expressive pieces.
Instinctively and deliberately going against the grain of quick fix disposable fashion. Drawn to the beauty in the beast and the beast in beauty. Striving for perfection in imperfection. Graduated with First class honours degree in fashion design at John Moores University. Exhibited at London Fashion Week. Selected by Arts Thread to showcase collection inspired by migraine in Paris at Who’s Next Pret-a-Porter trade show where her ‘Migraine’ was sold to Kuwaiti retailer. Received Top Ten Designer award at China Fashion Week. Currently concentrating on the world of costume and collaboration, as well as a planet and body friendly contemporary ready-to-wear collection.