Shuva is an intimate, exposed solo journey into the depths of memory. Set to the music of J.S. Bach, the performer explores who we once were versus who we are today. The piece deconstructs the concept of “return,” viewing it not as a physical homecoming, but as a persistent attempt to re-encounter a past version of oneself. Navigating between vivid memories and the present moment, the body questions identity, change, loss, and what remains steadfast within us.
Ido Gidron is an independent artist, dancer, choreographer, certified Gaga instructor, and rehabilitative Pilates therapist. A graduate of the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, he performed with the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company and Batsheva Dance Company during his IDF service. Ido has collaborated with choreographers like Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Itzik Galili, and held guest residencies at Kennesaw State University, ZHdK, and the Gothenburg Opera. Supported by Mifal HaPayis grants, his works were featured in the “Curtain Up” Festival (2018, 2025). He currently creates and leads global workshops.
Shuva
Choreography & Performance: Ido Gidron
Music: J.S. Bach Artistic
Mentorship: Shlomit Fundaminsky
Rehearsal Directors: Naomi Katz & Noam Eldar
Lighting Design: Harel Yeshurun
Production: Irit Eilat The piece premiered at the Between Heaven and Earth Festival 2025.
Release the Grip is a female duet exploring the tension between holding and releasing, contrasting held power with vulnerable space. The fist serves as a symbol of control and protection, present in both the body and the relationship through tightening and letting go. Power continuously shifts between the dancers through leading, leaning, refusal, and compliance. This movement weaves an intimate bond between two women defined by dependence, active listening, resistance, and compassion.
Naomi Kats (b. 1999, Jerusalem) is a dancer, choreographer, teacher, and producer. A graduate of the Maslool Program and the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, she has performed internationally since 2019 with companies like ilDance, MAZE, and the Israeli Opera. An independent choreographer since 2022, her work has been presented at the Suzanne Dellal Center, MASH, and festivals in Italy and Germany. Her research explores female identity, transformation, and holding versus release.
Release the grip
Choreography: Naomi Kats
Dancers: Lal’el Pillora , Naomi Kats
Music editing: Rotem Viner Chaikovsky
Costumes: Yarden Eshel
Outside eye: Rachel Erdos
Dramaturgy: Yael Venezia
The work was developed and premiered at Mash dance festival 2025 and Intima Dance Festival 2026..
