SALLY O'NEILL
Dramaturg
Sally works as a dramaturg within the realm of contemporary dance and performance. She specializes in facilitating and advising the artistic team, reflecting on the work in progress, and providing dramaturgical tools and methods. Her expertise lies in conducting extensive research and analysis, contextualizing artistic material, and offering targeted feedback to enhance the creative process. In addition, she brings a critical eye to analyze societal expressions, methodically reflecting on existential issues, and identifing trends and clichés. In her practice, she delves into the universe of the maker, asking questions that propel the creative process in whichever direction the work needs or wants to go. In Sally’s philosophy, the piece has a trajectory of its own, and there are no right or wrong answers. Her commitment to fostering a safe and creative environment reflects her dedication to nurturing artistic development and exploration.
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About
With over two decades of immersion in the world of dance and performance, Sally has evolved from a contemporary dancer to a dedicated performance dramaturg. Her dance background encompasses classical ballet, jazz, and modern dance, alongside a deep exploration of contemporary dance and somatic movement during her education. Sally's educational journey led her through Hungary and the Netherlands, followed by a profound exploration of philosophy in her home country, Sweden, and a master's degree in Theater and Performance studies at the University of Copenhagen.
All her experiences, including her rigorous academic pursuits, have significantly shaped her understanding of her role as a performance dramaturg. Notably, the research she conducted for her master's thesis continues to inform her work, infusing it with depth and critical insight. She draws inspiration from the contributions of notable dramaturgs such as Guy Cools, André Lepecki, and Christel Stalpaert, integrating their philosophies into her own approach.
Sally remains deeply committed to exploring and decolonizing the understanding of knowledge, alongside the ongoing deconstruction of hierarchies that often marginalize individuals. Her work reflects a continuous dedication to the evolution of contemporary dance and performance dramaturgy within the artistic community.