See how Rafael Bonachela turned personal challenges into dance triumphs on Creative Types, ABC.
In the latest episode of Creative Types with Virginia Trioli, viewers are invited into the world of Rafael Bonachela, the Spanish-born artistic director of the Sydney Dance Company. The episode, set to air on Tuesday 16 April at 9.00pm on ABC and iview, delves into Bonachela’s passionate journey through dance, which propelled him to the pinnacle of contemporary dance but at a personal cost.
“I was born to dance: but while that love took me to the top of contemporary dance, it splintered my family: now comes the dance to reconcile that,” Bonachela reflects.
During the episode, Virginia Trioli visits Bonachela at the Walsh Bay studios, where he rehearses with his dancers. The inspiring backdrop of Sydney Harbour plays a vital role in his creative process. In a more intimate setting at his apartment, Bonachela recounts his early years in La Garriga, Spain, as the eldest of four siblings. His passion for dance emerged early, often choreographing dances on the streets of his hometown, despite causing tensions within his family.
His journey took a pivotal turn when he moved to Barcelona to further his studies, leading to a scholarship with the Rambert Dance Company. Despite initial harsh critiques in choreography, a serendipitous opportunity with Kylie Minogue to choreograph her performance at the 2002 BRIT Awards and subsequent Fever world tour marked a significant upturn in his career.
Bonachela’s connection with Australia deepened when he was approached by the Sydney Dance Company to become their artistic director. Under his leadership, the company rejuvenated, drawing from the vibrant energy and natural beauty of Australia.
Despite his professional triumphs and leading the company to record audiences and profitability, Bonachela’s work remained somewhat overshadowed by the lack of his father’s approval. His latest piece, Somos, directly connects with his Spanish roots and is a significant work in his repertoire. His brother Ivan admires Rafael’s resilience and dedication, viewing him as a role model for his own children in pursuing their paths.
