Mating Ritual of the Great Supernal Spiders

Mating Ritual of the Great Supernal Spiders

Materializing somewhere between nature documentary and Bollywood dance music video, this “mating ritual” simultaneously highlights and subverts gender norms within clandestine spaces through the narrated practices of humanoid arachnids. With a discreet nod to Heera Mandi, the red-light district in ancient Lahore, the performance shines an inquisitive flashlight in the shady cobwebbed corners where no one and everyone really wants to look. 

Written & designed by Smalik

Performed and choreographed by Sarah Smalik & Jamie Tognazzini

Audio design by Ryan Scott

Commissioned by Nuit Blanche Calgary.