Beyond the Surface profiles 10 years of Fallen Angels working in the borough of Wigan.

Beyond the Surface is an exhibition at the Turnpike Galley, Leigh of artworks, photography and films from Fallen Angels Dance Theatre. An exhibition focal point features the newly commissioned work Samadhi, an immersive digital dance, light and sound installation.

The word “samadhi” is derived from the Sanskrit roots “sam” (together or integrated) and “dhi” (to hold or place). It signifies a state of complete concentration, stillness, and union with the object of meditation.

This unique, digital dance experience and been inspired by the real-life experiences of the Fallen Angels recovery community. Members engage in daily practices such as grounding and meditation to establish a deeper connection with their bodies. These practices serve as inspiration for the creation of digital dance, incorporating the movements and motions of bodies in recovery from substance use.

Through digital technology and collaboration with creative technologist Noel Jones, the work is accompanied by an immersive light and soundscape. The combination of visuals and audio aims to convey journeys of healing experienced by people in recovery.

An ambition for audiences is that they also embark on journeys of healing by leaving with a profound sense of calm and peace.

‘Samadhi’ was initially developed by Fallen Angels in collaboration with New Note Orchestra and people in recovery from substance use as part of the Royal Opera House, Creative Exchange Programme.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a series of workshops and an exhibition launch event Q&A exploring the role of art in recovery with Portraits of Recovery, Director & CEO, Mark Prest. For further information see here The Turnpike Gallery.

Beyond the Surface is a Fallen Angels Dance Theatre exhibition delivered in partnership with The Turnpike Gallery and Portraits of Recovery as part of Recoverist Month 2024.

Join us for a free training workshop

Friday, September 27

Join us for a free workshop inspired by the Beyond the Surface: Journeys from Within exhibition at the Turnpike Gallery.

Are you a worker or volunteer supporting people in recovery from addiction or those living with mental health conditions?

You are invited to a Recovery Arts professional development training and insights session at the Turnpike Gallery, Leigh on Friday 27th September, 1-3 pm.

Inspired by the immersive exhibition Beyond the Surface: Journeys from Within by Fallen Angels Dance Theatre, this session will empower you to consider how the arts can be used as an alternative but parallel tool for recovery.

In this free workshop, Fallen Angels & the Turnpike Gallery will lead you through activities and discussion, giving insights into the power of art to enhance the recovery process.