Beasts & Bodies

From the series Transgressing bodies: Physicality. Bestiality. Dualisms.

The thematic research “Transgressing bodies“ provides the framework for Overhead Project to reflect on body attributions, the imaginary and the non-describable, as well as their arrangements and boundaries in the present. It is based on a preoccupation with principles of transgression, i.e. forms of crossing boundaries. Transgressions are inconceivable without boundaries, which can be described as the epitome of human-made markings, along which actions and readings of bodies change their meaning and rights to existence and participation are negotiated. This applies to identity discourses as well as to national boundaries and limits to physical integrity and well-being.

With regard to bestiality, the project explores this attribution as a superficial projection surface for the libidinal, the untamable, the mythical and the uncanny. What can the beast tell us today about collectively anchored body images? Linking up with existing fields of research on bestiality and corporeality the resarch laboratories will revolve around different forms of attribution of meaning.

The premiere of the resulting production is planned for November 2025.

Co-produced by Ringlokschuppen Ruhr and Teatro della Tosse. Supported as part of the residency programme by PACT Zollverein (Essen), with funding from the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Supported by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and by Kunststiftung NRW.