A festive procession leads to a powerful performance exorcising centuries of injustice and shining a light on indigenous cultures.
Inspired by childhood memories and the 58 letters written to his mother during the Covid-19 pandemic, artist Tiziano Cruz presents Soliloquio, a heartfelt performance aimed at highlighting and exorcising centuries of abuse and erasure.
Soliloquio focuses on the indigenous communities of northern Argentina. Cruz was born and raised in the remote province of Jujuy near the borders of Chile and Bolivia. Dispensing with traditional folkloric imagery, he delivers a scathing critique of those in power who perpetuate discrimination, exclusion and injustice in a world which sidelines and subjugates indigenous artists.
Soliloquio opens with a procession led by Cruz as he takes to the streets, accompanied by a Latin American marching band and dancers, reflecting Cruz’s core community. Though welcoming, he addresses the realities of ethnicity, class and societal limitations. Via his compelling prose, these themes unfold as Cruz’s rousing festive parade becomes a rally for the forgotten and for change.
The second half of Soliloquio takes place in Battersea Arts Centre’s Council Chamber and sees Cruz now alone with his audience. His unflinching monologue delves deeper into his rural origins, beloved family and restricted access to acceptance as an artist. As his physical language intensifies, Cruz’s vulnerabilities and revelations are tempered with raw defiance as he vows to those who love him most, not to allow the art world to compromise him further.
Having previously toured across South America, Canada and most recently in Europe at this year’s Festival d’Avignon, this work has allowed Cruz access to the previously unreachable field of contemporary theatre - a manifesto for the recognition of differences.
As generous as it is urgent, Soliloquio is an invitation to build the future instead of simply waiting for it.
Winner of ANTI Festival International Prize for Live Art
Listings
SOLILOQUIO (I WOKE UP AND HIT MY HEAD AGAINST THE WALL)
Tiziano Cruz
30 Oct & 1-2 Nov, 7pm
Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN
Presented in Spanish with English subtitles
Tickets: Pay What You Can (Recommended price £16)
Booking Link: https://bac.org.uk/whats-on/soliloquio/
Further Information: Soliloquio<br>(I woke up and hit my head against the wall)