In the ever-evolving world of dance, the relationships built over the years often foster the most inspiring collaborations. This is undoubtedly true for Marco Laudani and Ginevra Cicatello, who will be running the On Stage Sydney Masterclass from March 8-9, 2025, at the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) in Darlinghurst. Their reunion, sparked by a shared passion for dance, led to an exciting opportunity for dancers in Sydney. This workshop promises to elevate creativity, confidence and technique for all participating.
Since 2013, Laudani has held the position of artistic director at Ocram Dance Movement and has been a guest teacher and choreographer at the prestigious John Cranko School in Stuttgart. He has created original works for several renowned institutions, including John Cranko School, Conservatório Internacional de Ballet e Dança Annarella Sanchez, CZD2, and KAOS Balletto di Firenze. Additionally, Laudani has been a guest instructor at esteemed dance schools such as Copenhagen Contemporary Dance School, Dietro Le Quinte Dance School, and the YGP Japan 2022. His choreographies have been featured in various international festivals.
Hailing from Sicily, Cicatello is a highly skilled and accredited dancer with a strong foundation in classical ballet and contemporary dance. She trained with renowned institutions such as Megakles Ballet, Petranura Danza Company and Zappalà Dance Company. In 2008, Cicatello broadened her artistic repertoire by studying Greek Drama and Modern Theatre. Between 2011 and 2014, she had the honour of performing at prestigious venues and festivals, including the Grand Opera d’Avignon in France, Festival d’Avignon, Roma Europa Festival, Tanzmesse, Scenario Pubblico Theatre and the Greek-Roman Theatre in Catania.
Cicatello worked across Europe as a freelance performer, further enriching her experience. In 2022, she was selected to participate in Modem Pro with Zappalà Dance Company, performing the company’s repertoire in Italy. In addition to her extensive performance career, Cicatello specialised in the Gyrotonic® Movement System.
Now based in Sydney, Cicatello is a certified teacher with the RAD and works as a choreographer. She is currently serving as the Rehearsal Director for both FEVER and Candlelight and is looking to elevate the potential of the next generation of dancers.
Join Dance Informa as we explore what the On Stage Sydney Masterclass will entail.
Can you share details about the upcoming workshop? Where and when will it be held, and who is it intended for?
Ginevra Cicatello
“On Stage Sydney, a two-day dance workshop will take place on March 8 and 9, 2025, at the Royal Academy of Dance in Darlinghurst, Sydney. This workshop is designed to bring together dancers from all backgrounds — whether casual dancers looking to deepen their practice or professionals aiming to refine their craft.
The workshop will run from 9am-4pm on day one and 9am-6pm on day two, with the latter culminating in an open-door session where the public can observe the choreographic process in action. The goal is to provide a comprehensive, hands-on experience combining rigorous training and creative exploration. By keeping the group small — only 20 students — everyone will receive personal attention and feedback, which is something I value as an educator.”
What can students expect to learn and experience during this workshop?
Cicatello
“What sets this workshop apart is its focus on individuality and the organic nature of dance. We emphasise tapping into one’s movement style, which is essential for dancers at any career stage. The workshop will combine Marco’s repertoire, which is incredibly dynamic and powerful, with my approach to movement, which is more about research-based exploration. We’ll focus on connecting breath to movement and creating an organic flow. This is not just about executing steps; it’s about understanding the ‘why’ behind the movement and finding your unique voice as a dancer.”
How do you envision the workshop impacting students’ confidence and creativity in their dance practice?
Cicatello
“The workshop gives students the confidence to break free from rigid structures and explore new moving methods. The base of this for me is having a boost of energy and confidence for the student to explore and feel safe in trying new ideas and embracing new movement pathways. It’s about creating a mindset that empowers the students to experiment and take ownership of their practice.”
What nuances do you observe between Australian and Italian dance students, and what can they learn from each other?
Marco Laudani
“I wouldn’t say there are any significant ‘differences’ between them. Of course, habits, traditions and culture influence how people dance, but I find it incredibly rewarding to connect with dancers worldwide. Observing how others approach dance is, in my opinion, one of the most valuable ways to learn and grow.”
Are there any specific techniques or styles that will be emphasised during the workshop?
Cicatello
“This workshop will combine Marco’s company’s vibrant, dynamic style, Ocram Dance Company, with my fluid and research-driven approach to movement. The dancers will explore different techniques that push the boundaries of traditional training, with an emphasis on somatic work and creative exploration. We’ll focus on combining our two styles with Marco’s powerful choreography and my approach to organic movement. The key is to work from the inside out, not just to move for the sake of it but to understand the more profound connection to the movement itself.”
What does dance mean to you on a deeper level and your connection to movement?
Laudani
“As a teenager, dance was my life-saving passion. It was something that gave me a sense of purpose and belonging. Today, it has become my purest form of expression. Being able to build a career around it is something I consider an incredible privilege.”
What role does collaboration play in the workshop, and how can students expect to engage and connect?
Cicatello
“Collaboration is central to this workshop. Students will work individually and engage in group activities, including improvisation, partner work and guided creative exercises. I want them to feel the value of working with others — it’s not just about their own individual journey but how they can contribute to a collective energy in the room. Through activities like partner work and group improvisation, the dancers will be able to collaborate, learn from each other and experience the full creative process.”
How would you describe your choreographic style? What can students anticipate when working with you?
Laudani
“I wouldn’t define myself by a fixed ‘style’ of choreography because I’m constantly evolving as an artist. I’m always learning, studying and growing. That being said, I do tend to favour expressive gestures and pay close attention to tradition, folklore and musicality. When working with me, students can expect a class filled with energy and curiosity — I’m drawn to working with dancers who are attentive and eager to explore new ideas. Energy, above all, is essential in my process.”
Reflecting on your journey as a young dancer, what key lessons have you carried with you throughout your career?
Cicatello
“My path has been marked by continuous learning and growth. I believe the critical lessons from my youth are perseverance, self-awareness and a commitment to exploring movement beyond the technical, and are crucial for any dancer. As a young dancer, I learned the importance of understanding movement as a language and embracing the physical and emotional aspects of dance.”
What influences have shaped your choreographic style over the years?
Laudani
“My style has been deeply influenced by the remarkable teachers, choreographers and key figures I’ve encountered in the dance world. My studies outside of dance — particularly in political science and law — have also shaped my artistic journey in ways that might not be immediately obvious but have greatly enriched my perspective as both an individual and an artist. Working with Claudio Scalia, my co-director at Ocram Dance Movement, has been another major influence in the evolution of my choreography.”
How would you describe the essence of Marco and his choreographic process?
Cicatello
“Our connection as Sicilians is similar to choreographic methods from deep research of cultural and social elements. Essentially, the heart of his work is focused on the body as both a storytelling device and a vessel for expression in the sense of rawness or vulnerability. He tends to work intuitively, allowing the dancers to inhabit the space and the material in organic ways.”
In your opinion, what are the most essential qualities for a dancer to develop?
Laudani
“Curiosity is, without a doubt, one of the most essential qualities for a dancer. The world of dance is vast, and there is much to explore. A curious mind allows dancers to evolve, discover new approaches, and truly embrace the art form. This partnership is a testament to the power of the dance community to bring people together. Through workshops like the On Stage Sydney Masterclass, dancers can grow their technical skills, explore their creativity and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.”
Cicatello
“Dance is a small world. We all know each other, and even though we may go down different paths, there’s always a way back to where it all began. That’s the beauty of this art form — it’s about collaboration, growth and connection.”
With a growing network of international collaborators and a strong vision for the future, Cicatello and Laudani are excited to continue nurturing the next generation of dancers in Sydney, Italy and beyond.
On Stage Sydney is a unique opportunity for dancers to explore their creativity and advance their careers. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting journey — register for the workshop today! Book here: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1315132.
By Renata Ogayar of Dance Informa.
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