Cosmetic demons: a choreographic salon uses the hair salon as a metaphor for a place where our processes, emotions and inner demons can have space to be shared and celebrated. The project will replicate the actual situation of getting their hair done by letting haircuts of pre-selected clients take place in front of an audience. Instead of a traditional mirror, there is a dancer, and instead of a silent theatre there is the hum of a salon. Through the transformative act of dancing, the work explores the historical and community-building aspects of gossip and the function of beauty salons. The project sheds light on the importance of salons and the gossip that takes place there, and the vital role they have played within the queer community. With curiosity and playfulness, the project asks how community is upheld in these spaces. The work intertwines three different relationships – the care of the individual in the hairdresser’s chair, the client observing the dance and the audience witnessing the whole spectacle – creating a space for both introspection and reflection. In this way the project deals with multiple perspectives on our perception of dance, while unfolding the theme of gossip as a secret (and sacred) process. The demons arise like a distant lap dance, springing from the need for change and transformation. The dancers allow this need and longing to appear and be celebrated. The concept of cosmetic demons is inspired by an ancient meditation and therapy method called “feeding your demons”, explained in a book by the Buddhist nun Lama Tsultrim Allione. It is also informed by the queer and minority history of gossip that is still thriving. As a choreographer and performer, Sindri Runudde continues to work with a playful and humorous approach, using joy, fiction and fashion as tools for queer perspectives and perception-politics juxtaposed with more troubling and dark experiences of the salon. You can experience `Cosmetic Demons´ on the 16th, 17th and 18th of May 2024 at Elverket, Dansens Hus in Stockholm. Grab your tickets HERE