'800 Lifetimes' looks at the origins of language and myth. Specifically around the time of the cognitive era (about 50,000 years ago) where we started to develop a shared language for the purpose of connection. 

A way to conjure new realities, create community and make sense of the world around us by sitting around a fire and telling a story. 

For this project we will work with local multi-generational groups to weave the modern myth of Bedford using wearable, 360 sound technology and contemporary dance. Welcomed into a circle of sound, voices and movement generated by professional dancers and the community will swirl around you. 

This will be a sharing of two weeks of Research and Development. There will be time for audience members to play with the sound technology Flowfal by Curvor before the show, a sharing of the work in progress then a discussion and feedback sharing following this. 

The work is created by Pell Ensemble, led by choreographer Rebecca Evans in collaboration with sound designer Christian Duka, creative tech Simon East, composer Dominie Hooper and dancers Anotny Daly Luna, Amarnah Amuludun and Caterina Grosoli. 

This project is commissioned and co-produced by University of Bedfordshire and Bedford Creative Arts, a part of the Dance Beds programme. Produced by Step Out Arts. Supported in partnership by The Place Bedford. Supported using public funding by Arts Council England.