Butoh Dance Retreat

with Imre Thormann

In the Sahara desert, Morocco

12-22 Nov 2024

How does the body resonate with the rhythm hidden behind the silence?
How are the outer and inner movements moved by the timelessness and spaciousness of the Sahara?
When all our senses and instincts are sharp by primordial nature, can we reconnect with life's origin?

Through Butoh dance, Imre's guidance of "walking" , and a nomadic way of life. We can attune our body to the frequency of the Sahara. We dance, live and just be, in an original, authentic and simple manner.

It is unlike any desert tourist tour, there is no electricity, no signal, no building, no shop! Only the nomad, camels, the body, and Butoh!

2024 we extend the journey to 11 days! More days completely out in the desert! Walking in silence...

(* Photos used on this website, unless otherwise noted, are credited to Raúl Bartolome, taken during the Butoh Desert Retreat in 2023. )

Just walk...

Butoh Desert Retreat 2023

IMRE THORMANN

Imre Thormann(*1966) is a dancer living in the dance. He started his body journey with several years of martial arts studies including Aiki Do Kung Fu, and Taekwan Do ( 1984 Swiss champion), as well as an Alexander Technique teacher. Later on, he trained seven years in Tokyo with Kazuo Ohno (Butoh) and Noguchi Michizo (founder of Noguchi Taiso, experiencing the principles/ habits of nature in your own body). From 1993 he created various solo pieces which he performed in Japan, America and Europe. After 13 years living in Tokyo, he is now based in the south of France, teaching regularly in Molières-sur-Ceze (close to Nimes) and in Basel.

In this Butoh workshops it does not convey any fixed form or technique, but the principles that form the basis of movement (spiral, wave, gravity, emotion etc.). We will focus on everyday movements like standing and walking, as well as on emotional forms of expression. We will establish a basis that will enable us to exchange conventional patterns of movement for fresh approaches that will help us to execute movements more easily.

More Info

(Photo credit - Piotr Nykowski)

<The False David> by Imre Thormann

NOGUCHI TAISO

In this retreat, we will explore as well as Noguchi Taiso with Imre. In its practice, the self and nature are explored based on one's own movement as a reference point and thus one's own personal perception. The goal is not the consciously controlled execution of a movement, but the individual perception of the changes inside the body. The resulting sensitization of the senses improves the automatic control of the fundamental movements in everyday actions. Using various models such as hammer, whip, spring or materials, we research the natural principles (spiral, wave, gravity, etc.) on which the movement is based. This allows us to move comfortably, with a feeling of being good to the touch. The main actors in this movement are not the muscles, but your own body weight and its counter-reaction due to gravity. The resulting force is fundamentally different from the usual definition of force; namely the ability to oppose the forces of nature (such as gravity). Rather, power is the ability that brings the whole self as close as possible to actual nature.

(Photo credit - Piotr Nykowski)

Imre Thormann on spirals, waves & basic movement principles (Noguchi Taiso)

"Before we turn to walking, let's deal with what happens before. We stand before we go. We take a stand. In German, but also in many other languages such as English, "standpoint" and in French "point de vue" or in Japanese "tachiba", the word means an external as well as internal attitude that sums up our existence . A pause, introspection, before we dare or risk taking the next step. A weighing, weighing, daring or balancing before we give up our balance to leave our position. A definitive and absolute act, by the way. Nothing will ever bring us to the same point at the same time again. We give up, there or away.

Now comes the step, or in other words, it prevents our fall. But we only dare to take this step if something disturbs our balance. A stimulus or impulse that hits us from the outside or moves us from the inside. Leaving your point of view is always a risk and takes courage. A step or even a fall into the unknown. The verb dare means an uncertain outcome and is derived from the scales. So we weigh, sway and wobble, weigh the stimulus or impulse before we leave our position and dare to take a step. The best balance is as close to imbalance as possible. When we stand, we just don't fall. The healthiest you are the closer you are to the disease. The richest you are the closer you are to poverty. One is most alive the closer one is to death. Can you stand it?"

-- Imre Thormann

Why we walk and how we walk...

DESERT FLOWER

The Fleur du Désert (Desert Flower) serves as an international platform for sustainable and solidarity-based development in the Bono region of southern Morocco. This unique space is dedicated to enhancing the earth through agroecological permaculture practices and revitalizing human nature through various activities that promote solidarity, community, and personal well-being.

The Desert Flower is founded and operated by the local Tuareg ethnic group, who have lived on this magnificent land in the Moroccan desert for generations. Accompanied by their trusty dromedary camels, they have traversed the sandy and rocky terrain of this enchanting region, gaining an intimate knowledge of every nook and cranny. It is with their guidance that we will embark on our butoh desert journey.

More Info

(Photo from Desert Flower)

OTHER EXPERIENCE

Dance is not only in the stage, and wellness comes from the body, mind and spirit

Experience the Jamaa el Fna, a UNESCO Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The place is known for its active concentration of traditional activities by storytellers, musicians and performers.

The spectacle of Jamaa el Fna is repeated daily and each day it is different. Everything changes — voices, sounds, gestures, the public which sees, listens, smells, tastes, touches. The Square, as a physical space, shelters a rich oral and intangible tradition." — Juan Goytisolo

Oral and intangible Moroccan tradition

Jamaa el Fna

(Photo from Yi)

Embark on a journey through the awe-inspiring landscape that spans from the majestic High Atlas Mountains to the verdant Date Palm Valley, culminating in the vast expanse of the desert. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit internationally renowned movie locations such as Aitbenhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Morocco.

Exotic landscape

Atlas to Sahara

(Photo from internet)

The Tuareg people, known as the nomads of the sands, have a deep connection to the desert and believe that to live is to become a part of it. They cherish the pristine wildness, simplicity, and vastness of their desert home.

Ali, the founder of Desert Flower, a Tuareg man who was born in the desert and grew up in the desert, was a camel shepherd as well as a desert shaman. An authentic and determined man who walked for his dream, the dream of the desert and its people. Ali will accompany us for our desert trek, and introduce to us his desert culture.

Meeting Tuareg

Ancient traditions and mystery

During the desert trek, you will have the chance to experience walking alone in the vast desert, with no one around, listening to the language from the universe creator. You can as well as deepen your body training techniques in absolute silence, without any distractions.

Rest assured, you will be looked after by the Tuareg for your safety. We will introduce you to methods for a safe solo walk. If you do not wish to walk alone, don't worry, you can also choose to walk with the Tuareg and other members who prefer to walk in a group.

Experience Solitude in the Sahara

Desert Trek

BASIC SCHEDULE

12-22 Nov 2024
11 days 10 nights

12/11/24 Arrive in Marrakech

Pick up from the airport to accommodation in the Riad of Marrakech; Visit Jamaa el Fna in the evening
Suggested arrive in Marrakech before 4 pm

13/11/24 Journey to the desert

Travel from Marrakech to M'hamid Sahara; Accommodation at the Permalodge "La Source Gaia" of Desert Flower, in the edge of Sahara

14/11/24 Butoh workshop
at Desert Flower base camp

Butoh Workshop with Imre at camp "La source Gaia", in the stationary desert camp, edge of Sahara; Welcome introduction to Desert Flower project

15,16,17,18,19/11/24 Butoh Workshop
and Desert Trek

5 days and 4 nights Butoh workshop and desert trek with Imre inside the Sahara!!! Journey accompanied by Tuareg nomad guide, and camel (1 per person)
It is unlike any desert tourist tour, there is no electricity, no signal, no building, no shop! Only the nomad, camels, sand, stars, and the body!

20/11/24 Integration & Performance

Integration circle for sharing, questions, inspiration; Site specific performances by participants

21/11/24 Journey to Marrakech

Travel back to Marrakech
Vist world heritage site along the way
Accommodation in the Riad of Marrakech
Arrive in Marrakech city around 8 pm

22/11/24 Departure from Marrakech

Transport to the airport of Marrakech

Riad in Marrakesh

Traditional Moroccan architecture with multiple storeys centered around an open-air courtyard. We will experience the riad for two nights in Marrakesh.

Earth Bungalow
in Desert Flower Camp

The eco-lodge is traditionally built with sand bag, light straw clay, adobe, and the hands of nomads. Every resource is from its original! It keeps the warmth at night, protects from the heat during the day, and it breathes!

Desert trek bivouac

In the desert trek (5 days 4 nights) you can choose to sleep under the shared nomad tent. Or under the milky way, universe as the roof, spacious desert as the ground, silence as the lullaby. Sleeping equipment provided.

ACCOMMODATION

(Photo from collaborated Riad Ciel d'Orient)

(Photo from Desert Flower)

FOOD

Savor the traditional and delectable Moroccan vegetarian cuisine crafted by local chefs. Our culinary offerings prioritize local, seasonal ingredients. Indulge in the luxury of renowned Moroccan olive oils, unique king spices, as well as a diverse array of fresh fruits, figs, almonds, walnuts, dates, and more.

By embracing a locally sourced vegetarian diet, we aim to minimize the carbon footprint of each meal and support local livelihoods.

Please note that food resources in the desert are limited. If you have any specialized dietary needs related to your health condition, do not hesitate to contact us for further information.

INCLUDED
✤ 6 days Butoh Workshop with Imre Thormann
✤ 5 days / 4 nights trek in the desert with local guides and camels
✤ D1 and D11 airport/station pickup and drop off
✤ Round trip transportation "Marrakech - Desert - Marrakech"
✤ Three vegetarian meals per day and drinking water, except for dinner of D1 and D11
✤ 11 days / 1o nights accommodation in traditional riad, earth bungalow, and bivouac
✤ Performance documented by professional photographer

INCLUDED & EXCLUDED

EXCLUDED
✤ Plane tickets
✤ Extra private photo session in the desert with professional photographer (please email for inquiry)
✤ Travel insurance (Must show on arrival)
✤ Individual care
✤ Tips
✤ Personal expenses

The desert evokes a call for authenticity and simplicity that extends to the emotional, mental, and physical levels. Are you feeling compelled to answer this call?

Our journey will lead us to embody various cultures and lifestyles. Are you naturally curious and respectful of alternative cultures, with an open and respectful mind towards them?

In mid-Nov, the Sahara experiences temperatures ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F) at night to 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day. While our accommodations will provide a cozy roof overhead, the weather remains dry and the UV radiation is strong. Sometimes there could be strong wind. Are you prepared for a primitive and immersive nature adventure?

Please be mindful of the desert conditions and ensure that you are physically fit enough to participate in trekking and Butoh dance workshops. If you are ready, then say YES to this remarkable adventure!

*No dance experience requested. Teaching will be in English.

BEFORE YOU REGISTER

1620€ Single room with attached bathroom
1460€ Double room(one king size bed) with attached bathroom
1360€ Twin beds with shared bathroom (Nomadic canvas tent available)
1240€ Four beds dormitory with shared bathroom (Solid construction made by sand brick)

10% early bird discount register before 1st Oct
50% transfer in advance to confirm registration
Each room has limited space and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Thank you for your understanding.