Cecilia Martin

STEAM interrogates the ways in which patriarchal structures fracture women’s relationships with themselves and each other. Through dance, acrobatics, physical theatre, text and vocals, we are creating an interdisciplinary, experimental work that holds both force and tenderness. 

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“Steaming” is a term we coined to describe the simultaneous experience of shame, rage, and humiliation - resulting in a strive for confidence and power. We are unfortunately often still seeing this exerted as 'power over', and as women, we’re feeling this steamy cocktail of emotions towards individuals, institutions and as an empathic response to the harrowing effects of patriarchy. But is it really helping anyone if we all keep steaming in our little bubbles of like-minded folk, polarising our views and demonising those we disagree with? 

 

Now, we’re more interested in asking:

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Where do we go from here? 

In a world growing more divided, how can we come together? 

Can we harness our power while making space for softness? For compassion?

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We live in a time that demands we navigate discomfort, yet discussions around gender politics are often stifled by fear, guilt, or defensiveness. This work presents these complex topics in a way that promotes conversation and curiosity, rather than guilt, shame or silence.

 

Creative team:

 

Director, choreographer & performer: Cecilia Martin

Collaborating Performers: Jenni Large and Bridie Hooper

Dramaturgy & Creative Doula: Kate Harman

Artistic Associate & Mentor: Leah Shelton

Visual Design: Merinda Davies

Sound Designer: Guy Webster

 

The first research residency for this work was supported by Studio1’s Creative Funded Residency Program. We will continue to develop this work in 2026, with support from GUTS Dance Spill (your guts) Residency and Creative Australia.