Last Updated on August 9, 2024
Gion Treichler, hailing from Zurich, Switzerland, embarked on his dance journey at the prestigious Zurich Dance Academy (taz) and further honed his skills at the esteemed Ballet School of the Opera House Zurich. With a profound commitment to his craft, Gion pursued his passion for contemporary dance, culminating in his training at Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK).
Throughout his illustrious career, Gion has graced stages worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the dance community. His artistry has been showcased in works by luminaries such as Caroline Finn, Filipe Portugal, Regina Van Berkel, and Nadav Zelner.
Venturing across continents, Gion made his mark in New York City’s vibrant dance scene when he joined Martha Graham Dance’s esteemed second company, Graham 2. There, he demonstrated his versatility and skill in performing Graham’s timeless masterpieces and works by acclaimed choreographers such as Bradley Shelver, Yoshito Sakuraba, and Virginie Mecene.
Currently captivating audiences with his dynamic presence, Gion is known for bringing his unparalleled talent to the forefront. Since his arrival at Dance Kaleidoscope in Indianapolis in August 2023, he has interpreted the works of visionary choreographers including Joshua Blake Carter, David Hochoy, Janice Rosario, and Mariel Greenlee.
Renowned for his artistry, versatility, and unwavering dedication, Gion Treichler continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his mesmerizing performances and profound contributions to the world of dance.
Gion, can you tell us about your first international performance and how it shaped your perspective on dance as a universal language?
My first international performance was a mix of excitement and anxiety. I was quite nervous about how a foreign audience would respond to our work. But it really highlighted for me that dance transcends linguistic and cultural barriers. That experience reinforced my belief that dance is a universal language, capable of expressing emotions and stories in ways that words cannot. It was a powerful reminder of how dance can unite people across the globe through the shared language of movement
How have the diverse cultural experiences from performing in places like Zurich, New York City, and Indianapolis influenced your artistic style and approach to dance?
Performing in cities like Zurich, New York City, and Indianapolis has been incredibly influential in shaping how I approach dance. Each place has its own artistic pulse and audience vibe that has really pushed me to grow. In Zurich, I immersed myself in the precision and discipline of European ballet. It was all about refining my technique and mastering the classical forms, which definitely had a big impact on my style.
New York City was a whole different ballgame. The energy there is electric, and the dance scene is so diverse and cutting-edge. I got exposed to a lot of contemporary and experimental dance forms, which really broadened my artistic horizons and taught me to embrace versatility. And then there’s Indianapolis, which provided this wonderful mix of both worlds. It was a place where I learned to connect deeply with diverse audiences, refining how I communicate through movement and emotion.
All these experiences have woven together to shape my choreography. They’ve taught me to find universal themes and emotions that can resonate across cultures, allowing me to tell stories and evoke feelings through dance in a way that transcends geographical boundaries.
Can you share a memorable experience where you felt a deep connection with an international audience, and what made that performance stand out?
One of the most memorable experiences for me was performing with Graham 2 in New York City during the 2023 New York Season. It was an incredible moment where everything just clicked. The audience’s energy and enthusiasm were so tangible—it felt like we were all in sync, connected on a deeper level despite any cultural or language differences.
What really stood out was how the choreography, steeped in Martha Graham’s expressive style, seemed to resonate profoundly with the audience. There was this mutual understanding and appreciation that transcended words. It was incredibly gratifying and humbling to feel that immediate connection with the audience, where they not only understood but felt moved by our performance.
It’s experiences like these that remind me why I love what I do. They show me the power of dance to bridge gaps and touch hearts, no matter where you are in the world.
What are some of the key challenges you’ve faced when adapting to different cultural and performance environments, and how have you overcome them?
Adapting to different cultural and performance scenes has been quite the adventure! One of the trickiest parts for me has been understanding what clicks with different audiences and blending into new cultural vibes. It can be a bit nerve-wracking at first, stepping into a space where everything feels fresh and different.
What’s really helped me is getting to know the local dancers and artists on a personal level. It’s like finding a common language beyond words—it’s in the way we move and create together. And diving into the local scene—trying out local spots, soaking in the vibe—has been key. It’s not just about the dance; it’s about connecting with the whole experience, which really shapes how I perform.
I approach each new place with a sense of curiosity and openness. It’s a chance to grow, both in my art and as a person. By focusing on that shared love for dance, we break down any cultural barriers and create something special together on stage.
Working with dancers and choreographers from various parts of the world must bring unique insights. How have these international collaborations enriched your understanding and execution of dance?
Working with dancers and choreographers from around the world has been incredibly enriching for me. Each collaboration brings a unique blend of techniques, styles, and creative processes that significantly enhance my understanding and execution of dance. For example, European choreographers have introduced me to the depth of narrative and emotional expression in their work, which has been a transformative experience. On the other hand, collaborating with artists from Asia has taught me the precision and discipline required in traditional dance forms, which has had a profound impact on my technical proficiency. These interactions continuously expand my artistic versatility, allowing me to integrate diverse influences into my performances. Ultimately, these international collaborations not only elevate my craft but also inspire new avenues of creative exploration and innovation.
How have your roles in international productions, such as those at the Ballet School of the Opera House Zurich and Graham 2 in New York, contributed to your growth as a dancer?
My roles in international productions have been pivotal in my development as a dancer. At the Ballet School of the Opera House Zurich, the rigorous training and emphasis on classical technique really sharpened my technical skills and instilled a strong foundation in discipline and precision. In contrast, my experience with Graham 2 in New York exposed me to Martha Graham’s revolutionary modern dance techniques, which emphasize expressive, emotive movement. These contrasting yet complementary experiences have refined my technique, broadened my stylistic repertoire, and deepened my understanding of dance as both a technical and expressive art form.
How do you think traveling and performing internationally have influenced your artistic evolution and the development of your own unique style?
Traveling and performing internationally have been crucial in shaping my artistic journey and developing my unique style. Every new place offers a fresh perspective and a chance to learn from different dance traditions and methodologies. Interacting with dancers from various cultural backgrounds has exposed me to a wide array of movement vocabularies and aesthetic sensibilities. This continuous exchange of ideas and techniques has really enriched my choreography, allowing me to create a style that is both eclectic and cohesive. The blend of these diverse influences lets me approach dance with a broader, more inclusive vision, which ultimately enhances my artistic expression.
Are there any countries or international companies where you haven’t performed yet but aspire to? What draws you to these places and how do you think they will further enhance your career?
Absolutely, there are several places and companies on my list. Japan, for instance, fascinates me. The way they blend traditional and contemporary dance forms is incredible, and I think performing there would really push my versatility and depth as a dancer. Then there’s Brazil – the energy and passion they have for dance are infectious. Dance is such a vital part of their culture, and I believe performing there would be an amazing experience. It would also help me connect with diverse audiences through the universal language of dance. These opportunities would not only expand my repertoire but also show my ability to resonate with and captivate audiences worldwide. I’m really excited about the possibility of bringing my artistry to these platforms and continuing to push the boundaries of dance.
Gion’s journey through the world of dance is a testament to the universal language of movement. His ability to connect with audiences from diverse cultures and his collaborative spirit have shaped his unique style and approach to dance. As Gion continues to perform and inspire, he exemplifies the power of dance to transcend boundaries and unite people across the globe.
Follow Gion’s journey and explore the world of dance through his dynamic performances. Stay tuned for his upcoming shows, and witness the captivating artistry of this extraordinary dancer.
