Four questions for Corentin JPM Leven
By Ingeborg Dugstad Sanders
Curating Producer
DansiT Choreographic Center
DansiT has been occupied with expanding what forms of choreography that we present. What is your approach to choreography, and how is that present in Diwriziennet - Lost genealogies?
We view choreography as a dramaturgical tool for bringing our scenographic materials to life and telling our stories. We see choreography as a life catalyst in the material, facilitating a conversation with the moving body and its material surroundings. Diwriziennet is a new research within these perimeters as, for the first time, we are two performers on stage. The difference in the material embodiment has deepened our understanding of structures and dramaturgies within our form.
You are educated from Akademi for scenekunst, which tragically had to shut down last year. Can you say something about what tools this education has given you?
True, I graduated in 2015 from NTA. This school has not only been training us in an expanding understanding of stage/performing arts and its variations, it has also helped us build a network with other artists from various fields at various establishment levels. This rich education we received, as demanding as it was, has shaped and challenged a lot about what the recipe for stage performances can be. It was not only a space for education but also a space for experimentation and failure - a true laboratory with influences from the whole world.
DansiT has co-produced and presented all three works of Corentin JPM Productions in Trondheim as part of Trondheim Pride: +- in 2020, Birds of Ill Omen in 2022, and now Diwriziennet – Lost Genealogies in 2025. Do you have any thoughts on this context, and what the celebration of Pride means to you?
We are very thankful for DansiT’s consistent support. Pride encompasses everything: it’s a celebration and a crucial political statement that demands our constant vigilance. We must never take these rights for granted, as history shows how easily they can be eroded by fascist ideologies. Our participation has strengthened our commitment and provided a platform to discuss a vital issue: sexual health.
You are working closely with several partners on your productions - especially with dance artist Ulf Nilseng. Can you tell us something about your collaboration?
Ulf and I are celebrating our 10-year anniversary! It’s a great joy and honor to share the stage with Ulf, for the first time. He has been a mentor, friend, and a significant source of inspiration in all my endeavors since school. Ulf took me under his flamboyant wings, and it has been a true privilege to continue questioning and creating alongside him.
Corentin JMP Leven is presenting
Diwriziennet - Lost Genealogies
Wednesday 10. and Thursday 11. September
at Rosendal Teater.