Tess Voelker performance at CORYBANTES is one of this summer’s contemporary dance highlights. On June 26–27, the American dancer and choreographer will perform at the Eleutherna Archaeological Museum in Crete. She is bringing her distinctive improvisational style to an extraordinary historic setting.
Tess Voelker is one of the most exciting voices in contemporary dance today. Known for her deeply intuitive approach to movement and improvisation. She has performed with some of the world’s most prestigious dance companies while developing a distinctive choreographic language of her own. Set among ancient ruins, the production brings together internationally acclaimed dancers and choreographers in a dialogue between history and contemporary movement.
From Ballet Training to International Stages
Born in San Francisco in 1997, Voelker trained at leading ballet schools in the United States before beginning her professional career with Ballett Dortmund. She later joined Nederlands Dans Theater II, progressing to Nederlands Dans Theater I, where she collaborated with celebrated choreographers including Crystal Pite, William Forsythe, Johan Inger, Alexander Ekman, and Marco Goecke.
In 2020, at just 23 years old, Voelker became the youngest choreographer ever commissioned by the Paris Opera Ballet. Honoured receiving an invitation from Aurélie Dupont. Since then, she has worked independently as both a performer and choreographer, presenting works across Europe and the United States.
A Dance Language Built on Improvisation
Rather than following a fixed movement vocabulary, Voelker creates through improvisation, allowing music, emotion, and instinct to shape each performance. Her work blends dance and theatrical expression while encouraging authenticity over technical display.
As a choreographer, she is interested in revealing each dancer’s individuality, often proving that the smallest gestures can carry the greatest emotional impact.
Performing at CORYBANTES
At CORYBANTES, Voelker will present spurt, a fully improvised solo performed to music by Julia Kent and Laura Misch. She will also appear in a new ensemble work by Andrey Kaidanovskiy. Working alongside internationally renowned dancers Maria Kochetkova, Rebecca Horner, and Daniil Simkin.
Taking place June 26 and 27 at the Eleutherna Archaeological Museum, the two-night programme offers a rare opportunity to experience contemporary dance in one of Greece’s most extraordinary historic settings.
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