The performance hryggr is a poetic and sensorial encounter between the body and the ocean, where the boundaries between human, nature and fantasy gradually dissolve. Through movement, the body slowly transforms, opening space for changing images, rhythms, and energies. Body, sound and space merge into a universe that moves between the tangible and the dreamlike, between reality and imagination. Audiences are invited to reflect on their own connection to the sea, to nature, and to the unknown.
The title hryggr derives from Old Norse and carries a double meaning: as a noun it means “spine”, and as an adjective it means “sad”. The word may refer to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which from space resembles a giant spine running through the ocean, but also to the grief associated with the environmental destruction of our time.
hryggr is created by Icelandic choreographer Bára Sigfúsdóttir in collaboration with composer Eivind Lønning and Antwerp-based artist Andrea Kränzlin.

Bára Sigfúsdóttir is an internationally recognized Icelandic artist whose work is known for its physical precision, conceptual depth, and strong poetic sensibility. Bára’s performances have been presented at national and international venues and festivals, including Venice Biennale, Reykjavik Arts Festival, Ice Hot Nordic Dance Platform, Tanzmesse, Performatik and Julidans, among others.

Choreography, Performer & Artistic Direction: Bára Sigfúsdóttir
Music created & performed live by: Eivind Lønning
Scenography & costume: Andrea Kränzlin
Light design: Shiva Sherveh
Outside eyes: Sara Vanderieck, Birgit Berndt, Guðbjörg R. Jóhannesdóttir, Margrét Bjarnadóttir & Orfee Schuijt.
Supported by: Henie Onstad Kunstsenter, CODA Oslo International Dance Festival, Bærum Kulturhus, Kulturdirektoratet Scenekunst – danseproduksjoner, Kulturdirektoratet, Norsk-Islandsk Kultursamarbeid, FFUK, Reykjavik Dance Atelier, Praxis Oslo.
Thanks to: Espen Reinertsen and Tony Tran

The performance is part of the Reykjavík Dance Festival program. The festival program can be found at https://www.reykjavikdancefestival.com/