Centro Danza Matadero, the new theater for all types of dances in the Area of Culture, Tourism, and Sports located in Nave 11, will host three pieces by IT Dansa on February 21st and 22nd. The company, known for its pedagogical approach and excellence in the world of dance, will present three pieces: Biterna, inspired by the historical discrimination of minorities and choreographed by Aleix Martínez; Lo Que No Se Ve, by Gustavo Ramírez Sansano, which explores the complexities of love from an intimate perspective; and Minus 16, by Ohad Naharin, known for its gaga technique and interaction with the audience.
After the performance on February 21st, the audience will have the opportunity to participate in an exclusive meeting with the company, along with the directors of Centro Danza Matadero, María Pagés and El Arbi El Harti, to delve into the creative and pedagogical process of the works.
The company, a platform for young talents
Founded in 1997 and directed by Catherine Allard, IT Dansa has established itself as an international platform of excellence for young dancers trained at the Institut del Teatre in Barcelona. The company was awarded the Gold Medal for Dance by the Gran Teatre del Liceu in 2024 for promoting a work method that enhances the technique and artistic personality of its performers.
IT Dansa consists of 18 international young dancers selected through auditions who receive a two-year scholarship to perfect their technique and professional training. During these two years, they work with prominent teachers and choreographers and perform in a wide network of theaters and festivals.
This training program serves as a unique and formidable springboard, with over 80% of these young dancers joining a professional company immediately after leaving IT Dansa. To date, the company has produced over 30 choreographies, allowing these dancers to collaborate with renowned choreographers as well as emerging talents. IT Dansa’s repertoire includes pieces by renowned choreographers such as Jirí Kylián, Ohad Naharin, Nacho Duato, Rui Horta, Alexander Ekman, and Ramon Oller.
The director, muse of Nacho Duato
After a career as a dancer at the Nederlands Dans Theater and later with Nacho Duato – whom she was a muse for many years – Catherine Allard began directing the company since its inception in 1997. Allard strives to develop the personality of the dancers, help them acquire mastery of movement, and body awareness in space. With the same spirit, the company continuously seeks to give its dancers the opportunity to take their first steps solo.
66 shows scheduled at Centro Danza Matadero
Centro Danza Matadero continues to develop its show programming with the aim of bringing dance in all its forms – flamenco, classical, and contemporary – to all audiences. For its premiere, this theater sold out all performances of the Ballet Flamenco de Andalucía.
Following IT Dansa, Rachid Ouramdane will perform at this new theater in Madrid from February 26th to March 1st, presenting Contre Nature with a selection of dancers from Chaillot Théâtre National de la Danse. This contemporary piece aims to explore the limits of movement and emotional connection, blending dance with aerial performances.
Until June 2025, Centro Danza Matadero has scheduled 66 shows, 140 performances, six premieres, and eight co-productions, with the participation of 48 national and eight international companies.
More information and tickets at www.centrodanzamatadero.com
