Far from the Norm

“A visionary programme of abstract hip hop movement and physical theatre” Jonzi D

Established in May 2009, Far From The Norm was founded by artistic director Botis Seva and is a collective of dance artists renowned for experimenting with hip hop form whilst tackling socio-political concerns. Far From The Norm’s work portfolio crosses theatre performances, outdoor spectacles and immersive experiences that are renowned for challenging yet inspiring their audiences. They are committed to producing evocative, authentic work by taking audiences on visceral journeys whilst presenting conceptual yet compelling truths.

Far From The Norm have performed nationally and internationally at festivals such as Sadler’s Wells Breakin’ Convention, VAULT Festival, Plymouth Fringe, Talawa Firsts, Austria’s Hip Hop Goes Theatre and San Francisco’s International Hip Hop Dance Fest. They have presented work in theatres and venues across the country including Crescent Theatre in Birmingham, Bay Theatre in Weymouth, The Riverfront in Newport, Stratford Circus in London and Nottingham Arts Theatre. Far From The Norm have also presented their own evenings at Sadler’s Wells, Lilian Baylis, The Vaults, Barking Broadway and Redbridge Drama Centre.

Botis Seva

“Botis’ political, theatrical and experimental take on hip hop might just make him the next big thing” Evening Standard

Botis Seva has been in partnership with Breakin’ Convention since 2011, where he participated in ‘Back to the Lab’ with Jasmin Vardimon and Jonzi D. It is through this strong relationship with Breakin’ Convention, that Botis’ success has thrived. In 2015, Botis was nominated by Breakin’ Convention and awarded the Bonnie Bird Choreography Fund, Marion North Mentoring Award, receiving mentorship from Hofesh Shechter.

“I see in him a seed of enthusiasm, of talent and of a great thirst to learn and progress” Hofesh Shechter

Through the Sadler’s Wells Wild Card programme, Botis was asked to curate ‘InNoForm’ in the Lilian Baylis for September 2015. Two sold out nights were curated in association with Breakin’ Convention, which saw him present exerts of current and ongoing work with Far From The Norm, alongside special guest Mikey J Asante and international collaboration between British Council Tunisia & Art Solution with Chouaib Brik (Tunis) & Lee Griffiths (UK). As a result, Botis is presenting InNoForm at British Dance Edition 2016. Co-commissioned by UHArts and Dance East, ‘Dance Springs’ festival saw Botis mentored by Cameron McMillan and present work at University of Hertfordshire Campus and at the Jerwood DanceHouse, Ipswich. Through ‘Collaborate’ with South East Dance funded by Jerwood Charitable Foundation, Botis will be working with dramaturg in residence Lou Cope to support and develop his artistic process.