Abstract

Citius, Altius, Fortius was a dynamic touring dance production created in 2012 in response to the UK-hosted London Olympic Games. Drawing its title from the Olympic motto—Faster, Higher, Stronger—the work explored the physical, emotional, and symbolic dimensions of the Games through original choreography and athletic movement. The piece took creative inspiration from multiple elements of the Olympic experience, including the grandeur of the opening and closing ceremonies, the iconic symbolism of the five Olympic rings, the intensity and diversity of sporting disciplines, and the rigorous physical and mental preparation athletes undergo in pursuit of excellence.

Performed by a company of University of Sunderland dancers, the work blended contemporary dance with motifs drawn from athletic training, competitive drive, and ceremonial spectacle. Through abstract and narrative sequences, the production celebrated human potential, resilience, and unity, echoing the Olympic spirit while offering a reflective commentary on the cultural significance of the Games.

Touring across regional venues during the 2012 Olympic year, Citius, Altius, Fortius served both as a tribute to the historic event and as an accessible cultural experience that brought the energy and ethos of the Olympics to diverse audiences through the language of dance.

Choreographed by Rachel Emms and Sarah Riach