Knot

Physically exhilarating and touchingly poignant, Knot is the internationally acclaimed circus theatre work by Nikki & JD. These talented performers use breathtaking hand-to-hand and dance skills to tell the tale of an impossible choice: how can we be honest with ourselves without hurting those we love? Part of the British Council Edinburgh Showcase 2019, Knot is a finely crafted journey through the struggles of commitment, exploring the absurdity, mundanity and joy of a very modern affair.

Presented by Jacksons Lane, the UK’s leading supporter of contemporary circus, Knot tells the story of two acrobats, one gay and one straight, linked together in an unconventional relationship. Using delicate sensitivity and exceptional circus skills, Knot is an exploration of LGBTQIA+ identity and the important bonds of companionship.

Knot is a funny and moving piece combining astonishing partner acrobatics, dance and storytelling to examine their own relationship, its durability and intensity. Bringing together a theatrical narrative with stunning circus skills, it explores the tension and dependency between two people and unpicks the audience assumption that a stage duo must be a couple.

Performer and co-creator Nikki Rummer comments, With Knot, we wanted to achieve new heights of acrobatic story-telling. Too often, circus tricks can feel like they interrupt a narrative. Knot brings together acrobatics, contemporary dance and the emotional punch of a story about an artist's life backstage. It's about the conflict, humour and sensitivity we wrestle with in relationships.

Created in collaboration with award-winning choreographer Ben Duke of Lost Dog Dance Company, Knot is supported by Jacksons Lane, Déda, Jerwood Choreographic Research Project II, the National Centre for Circus Arts, Arts Council England and Warwick Arts Centre.