Sydney Dance Company last collaborated with the Australian Chamber Orchestra in 2015. Were you keen to join forces again?

Our last collaboration with the Australian Chamber Orchestra was Illuminated, a stunning showcase of dance and music [by Britten and Rameau, as well as some JS Bach and Vivaldi] which toured internationally after a sold-out one-night show in Melbourne. The audience reception was amazing and a testament to the immense power of music and movement live onstage, which is something I’ve always loved. 

Rafael Bonachela. Photo © Pedro Greig

Ever since that incredible collaboration in 2015, Richard [Tognetti, the ACO’s Artistic Director] and I have been looking for the next project to work on together. When Richard proposed Silence & Rapture, I immediately said, “YES!” It is an incredibly exciting opportunity to reunite with the ACO and share our work with audiences across six Australian cities. Just like JS Bach and Arvo Pärt, the Australian Chamber Orchestra and Sydney Dance Company are a perfect pairing.

How has the music by Bach and Pärt inspired your choreography?

Music is a very important part of my work. It guides me through the creative process,...