LAB29 is aimed at local and international artists who wish to experiment, research, and develop new ideas within a compact residency format. Each residency concludes with a public presentation, offering insight into the artistic processes and developments that emerged during the stay.
For the first edition of LAB29, we are delighted to welcome body percussion artist Natasa Chanta-Martin.
Natasa Chanta-Martin is a percussive dance artist who approaches music through movement and fosters intercultural dialogue through the performing arts.
Moving in Polyrhythms (MiP)
During her residency, Natasa is developing the workshop series Moving in Polyrhythms (MiP) — a horizontal format that does not create hierarchies between age, experience, or background. Each participant brings their own knowledge and physicality, becoming an essential part of the collective rhythm.
MiP is based on a pulsing approach in which a single beat is grouped in different ways — a principle found in many musical traditions around the world, including Indian rhythm theory, Ottoman usul music, West African polyrhythms, Greek traditional music, Indonesian kecak, and others.
At its core is rhythm — the foundation of music and dance — and the body as a percussive instrument. In its contemporary form, Body Music connects elements of contemporary dance, physical theatre, percussive dance forms, choir singing, and hip-hop.
We also work with:
spatial awareness
synchronization
improvisation
movement as a self-accompanied rhythmic object
The Open Sessions are open to dancers, musicians, singers, actors, circus artists — as well as educators, community workers, bus drivers, craftspeople, and anyone curious to explore. Contemporary theatre artists particularly benefit from this practice, as it expands their understanding of rhythm, presence, and embodied musicality.
The Three Open Sessions
February 25th 2026 Session 1: Introduction to Body Music
February 26th 2026 Session 2: Working with Sound Effects and Your Theatre Persona
February 28th 2026 Session 3: Mini showcase of the developed material, followed by a Q&A
Mini Showcase "Wooden Allies, a work in progress of experiencing squeaky Leipzig"
Natasa writes "This work in progress took place during LAB29 where I explored the sound stories of the spaces I found myself in. Percussive dance is not often seen on contemporary stages and therefore the spaces and surfaces used are often DIY, just like this theatre space.
Connecting with the materiality of the spaces I found myself in included connecting with locals of Leipzig. Being invited in workshops and creating open session brought me in contact with many locals who wanted to share.
I am thankful to all of them. And to the masters that have educated me."
Photo ©Alexandra Ivanciu
