MIHR Theatre of dot-dot-dot: An Exploration of Performance Art, Performing Arts, Contemporary Dance and Theatre in Armenia Today

Abstract

MIHR Theatre was established in 2003 by sister and brother Mlke-Galstyan as the first independent contemporary dance theatre company in Armenia. It attempts to complement the state-dominated theatre with a dance system that is characterized by free expression and the combination of different genres, understanding art as always being connected with society and its changes. One of the founders, Shoghakat Mlke-Galstyan, together with her Austrian artist colleague Olivia Jaques in this article develops an explanation of the approach of MIHR Theatre - how it seeks to leave behind the traditional Soviet educational system in order to establish a contemporary dance scene in Armenia, as well as to incorporate Armenian traditions into their practice. But above all, the authors elaborate on the specific context MIHR Theatre finds itself in and works with extensively.