Contretemps was formed in 1985 by Barbara Segal and Frank Perenboom as a dance duo. Their aim is to present the dance of earlier centuries in a manner that is both lively and entertaining, while still remaining faithful to the original sources. Working from early manuscripts, printed choreographies and contemporary descriptions, Contretemps recreates the dances of past times, with authentic costumes and the music of the period either as a concert performance or integrated into stories to heighten the dramatic appeal. Whether as courtiers at Louis XIVs Palace of Versailles, or Harlequin and Columbine in the pantomimes of 18th century London, their performance is supremely entertaining.

Telephone: 020-7700-4293
Fax: 020-7700-5877
Website: http://www.thorn.demon.co.uk/contretemps/Index.html