Deciphers by Naishi Wang and Jean Abreu

Following acclaimed performances in Canada, Naishi Wang and Jean Abreu present the UK Premiere of Deciphers on tour to the Coronet Theatre, London (23 - 25 October), Dance City, Newcastle (31 October), Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippodrome (6 November), and Corn Exchange, Brighton Dome (11 November).

A powerful, physical performance, Deciphers brings together Chinese Folk Dance, Brazilian dance styles, spoken word, breath work, and ink on paper to explore translation and the complexities of communication where understanding gives way to misinterpretation. 

Choreographed and performed by Naishi Wang and Jean Abreu, Deciphers uses the stage as a blank canvas, highlighting the body as a primal source of communication and expression. Rooted in the immigrant experience, the work addresses translation not only as a linguistic act but as an emotional and cultural negotiation.

Deciphers features lighting design by Lucie Bazzo, known for her collaborations with Robert Lepage and Crystal Pite, set design by Ivy Wang, and an original score by Ukrainian composer Olesia Onykiienko.

Following its performances in Canada, Deciphers received three nominations for Outstanding Production and Best Performance for Naishi and Jean at the 2024 Dora Mavor Moore Awards in Toronto.

Born in Brazil, Jean Abreu trained in Brazilian Dances before moving to London in 1996 to study at Trinity Laban Contemporary Dance and Choreography. Since 2009 his own company, Jean Abreu Dance, has presented work across the UK, Europe, China and Brazil at the Royal Opera House, Southbank Centre and Auditório Ibirapuera São Paulo. Previous performance works include collaborations with visual artists Gilbert & George, Elisa Bracher and filmmaker Topher Campbell. Jean has taught extensively in renowned dance organisations and universities across the globe. In addition to Deciphers Jean is currently creating work responding to the creative legacy of artist and filmmaker Derek Jarman with disabled dance artist Joao Paulo Lima in São Paulo.

Toronto-based Naishi Wang was born in China and trained in Chinese martial arts and Chinese Classical and Folk dance. He was a company member of Toronto Dance Theatre for nine years before becoming an independent artist. He has collaborated with Berlin-based Tanz Theatre artist Christoph Walker and in 2018 premiered his celebrated solo Taking Breath.

Of Deciphers Jean Abreu said: “I’m excited to bring Deciphers to the UK because it allows Naishi and me to continue sharing our artistic dialogue.

At a time when the word immigrant carries so much conflict and tension, it feels like a true gift for us to present Deciphers in the UK - a country that is my chosen home and has welcomed multiple generations of immigrants.

We’re eager to perform our histories through our bodies, inviting others to witness the translation of our lived experiences through poetic movement, breath, and presence.”

Naishi Wang added: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to share Deciphers with Jean on this UK tour. More than just a geographic journey, this tour offers a chance to encounter diverse perspectives on what dance can be across different regions. It allows me to connect more deeply with local audiences, artists, and communities. I’m genuinely excited to experience the unfolding of these connections.”