Presented by Emergency Chorus

Behold! A council of leeches, a mystic hermit, a Victorian inventor, an economics conference, a dark and dripping cave.

Uncovering a mysterious series of visions and omens, Ways of Knowing is a dance theatre work which delves into the ways we predict and prophesy the future, from early meteorological devices to corporate trend forecasting and divination. Amidst an intricate system of set and improvised choreography, found text and visceral sound design, award-winning artists Emergency Chorus wield both science and magic to reckon with our precarious present and enter into the unknown.

Ways of Knowing comprises two distinct halves; mirror images, presented back to back. Part one, ‘All the Barometers in the World’, looks up to the skies in anticipation of a storm. Part two, ‘The Spelunkers’, follows a pair of explorers as they journey underground.

Winner of the Untapped Award 2025, and following their previous acclaimed shows Landscape (1989) and CELEBRATION, Ways of Knowing sees Emergency Chorus return to the stage with a strange and cloudy choreography, a descent into darkness, a startling revelation.

For Ways of Knowing:
‘The joy… of this show is its openness. It is open to interpretation, open to imagination’ – Maddy Costa, Something Other

For previous work:
‘Beguiling and enchanting work’ – Kate Wyver, The Guardian
‘work that rumbles around in your head long after it’s over’ – Lyn Gardner, The Stage

Photo credit: Jemima Yong
Supported by NDT Broadgate, curious directive, BOLD Elephant, Cambridge Junction, University of Greenwich, South House, Battersea Arts Centre and Old Diorama Arts Centre.

Suitable for ages 12+ (intense loud sound may be unsuitable for younger children)

Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes (no interval)

Warnings: Very loud sound and moments of darkness.

£18.50 • £13 student • £7.50 Troop members

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