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Tramping in the middle of Capital
Since 2005, Handa Gote Research & Development has worked on the boundaries between theatre, contemporary dance, the visual arts, music, performance and conceptual art. The ensemble is interested in the concept of post-dramatic and post-spectacular theatre, non-linear narratives, and the application of experiences from contemporary music and visual arts within theatre. Its performances involve the creative use of technology – both old technology and the most modern available. In most of its projects, the ensemble works with media archeology; its documentary theatre works intensively focus on "small (personal) histories".
photo: Handa Gote Archive
Nevertheless, the ensembles' main themes are recycling, sustainable development, and respect for traditions and traditional cultures. Its admiration for natural cultures is also reflected in the ensemble's work in the area of the visual arts, objects, and installations.
The art group Handa Gote has prepared a suitable exhibition space for displaying some of their items and Martin Vosáhlo's original photos of costumes made in their workshops– a tramping hut.
The Czech tramping movement, a distinctive form of escapism and a microcosm of society with its own rituals, costumes, and music, is highly theatrical in nature. Since the 1920s, 'tramps' have been escaping into the countryside during the weekends to find a safe refuge and a second home, which, many times, becomes more important than their first. Tramping incorporates a number of typically Czech attributes – a strong DIY approach, a close relationship with nature, and specific cultural and social practices. Handa Gote draws on all of these characteristics to find inspiration.
Handa Gote's temporary shelter will provide a refuge to the participants of the Tribes program in the Náprstek Museum and the art group's members will be present every day during the entire PQ 2015, both through their exhibits of photography and other items as well as in person. On most days, Handa Gote will meet at The Hut to hold discussions, work on their new performances, and answer any questions that curious passers-by may ask. The Hut will also be the site of Handa Gote's reworked performance of the good-humored Safírová hlava (Sapphire Head) puppet theatre. This means that The Hut will take on a life of its own in the form of workshops, exhibits, and simple friendly get-togethers throughout the entire Prague Quadrennial.
