Patois

by Jeanefer Jean-Charles & Associates

Dance, Music/Sound

A graphic image of a black woman with her arms outstretched behind her against a green, grey and yellow pattern and blue backgroudnd.

Patois explores what happens when two unwritten languages meet: the spoken language of patois (French Creole) and the movement language of dance.

British-Caribbean choreographer Jeanefer Jean-Charles MBE tells a story of lost languages, longing and belonging through traditional Caribbean choreography, contemporary dance and an original music score.

Join us on a journey to rediscover hidden voices and identities that are rooted in dialects that are buried within us as we reawaken stories and generations of the past.

About Jeanefer Jean-Charles

Jeanefer Jean-Charles MBE is a globally respected Creative Director and Producer with over 20 years’ experience, specialising in large-scale performances, opening ceremonies, stadium events, outdoor spectacles, carnivals, and parades.

Her work has taken her to over 21 countries and has gone down in the Guinness Book of Records. Her unique creative process brings to life the talents, strengths, and shared stories of local communities and artists in inspiring and unforgettable ways.

‘Inspired by formal portrait photography of black Victorian Britons, Jeanefer Jean-Charles’s sensual dance work restores life and humanity to its forgotten subjects.’

(Black Victorians)

The Guardian, Sanjoy Roy

An image of two female black dancers. One has her hand on the other's shoulder and is wearing a bright patterned top with blue trousers. The other is wearing a white vest and blue trousers.

A close up image of a black female dancer with her eyes closed and arms outstretched. She is wearing a brightly coloured and patterned top.

An image of black male dancers dancing with members of an audience. The dancers are wearing white vest, checked shirts around their waist and blue trousers.

An image of a group of black male and female performers. Each dancer is wearing blue trousers, a white vest and holding a suitcase.

Funding, commissioning and partner credits:

Patois is supported by Without Walls and commissioned by FESTIVAL.ORG for Greenwich+Docklands International Festival, Norfolk & Norwich Festival and Brighton Festival.