Last and First Men

A future race of humans finds itself on the verge of extinction. Almost all that’s left in the world are lone and surreal monuments, beaming their message into the wilderness. Across 2,000 million years, these last humans make contact with us, the first humans, telling their story and of their abilities, possibilities, and also their difference to us. The last humans not only offer their help, but also ask for help from us. Based on the ground-breaking 1930 novel by Olaf Stapledon, Last and First Men (2020) concluded the inspiring career of the Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson. Appearing in a world premiere at CTM Festival, Neon Dance presents a stunning and unique contemporary dance performance set to the backdrop of Jóhannsson’s 16mm black and white film, with narration from Tilda Swinton and original score composed by Jóhannsson and Yair Elazar Glotman, who will provide a live immersive audio experience. The production features choreography from Adrienne Hart, lighting design from Nico De Rooij, and costume design from the award winning Ana Rajcevic and Mikio Sakabe.

Created by Neon Dance

Concept & Direction: Adrienne Hart
Musical Direction: Yair Elazar Glotman
Composition: Johann Jóhannsson & Yair Elazar Glotman
Choreography: Adrienne Hart, Fukiko Takase, Kelvin Kilonzo, Aoi Nakamura, Makiko Aoyama
Performance: Fukiko Takase, Kelvin Kilonzo, Aoi Nakamura
Lighting Design: Nico De Rooij
Costume Design: Mikio Sakabe & Ana Rajcevic
Artefacts: Ana Rajcevic
Photography: Miles Hart
Graphic Design: Naile Muslu
Project Management: Maeve O’Neill
Supported by: d&b Audiotechnik, Sadler’s Wells, Swindon Dance, Pavilion Dance South West