RIFLESSO

RIFLESSO is a performative research project created by HOLYDAVID, deeply exploring the traditions of the drag and queer world. This initiative stands out for its ability to transform the stage into a space of expressive freedom and identity reflection, allowing spectators to come into physical and concrete contact with their own reflection, a place of self-projection.

THEMESThe SelfIdentityThe Fluidity and Sacredness of the SelfRESEARCH LINE

The RIFLESSO project aims to give a physical body to one's reflection, triggering a psychological and behavioral short circuit. Identity and the self, usually confined to the mental realm, become an external body that can be touched, embraced, and rejected.

INSPIRATIONQueer theory of identityMindful Interbeing Mirror TherapyDrag worldLong endurance performanceFUNDAMENTAL QUESTIONSDo we truly have a physical perception of who we are?What would happen if we could physically interact with our reflection?Can we enter into physical intimacy with ourselves without avatars or additional layers?PERFORMANCE MECHANICS

During a RIFLESSO performance, the performer is completely at the audience's disposal, allowing free and direct interaction with their body. The performer wears a mirror on their face, creating the illusion that spectators are actually interacting with themselves. There is no blocking reaction from the performer: every gesture, touch, or action is accepted and integrated into the experience. Each reflection explores different points of contact of identity, inspired by queer, drag, and fetish culture. This approach invites the audience to reflect on their own identity in a profound and visceral way.

PERFORMANCESRIFLESSO ONE

RIFLESSO ONE explores the self and its projection in the digital world, with particular attention to the alienation resulting from the commodification of the self.

Date and Place: Trento, Spazio Virgolettte, February 2023Theme: The self and its projection in the digital realm, the creation of multiple virtual identities, the contact with the true self at the base of every avatar, the alienation of the commodification of the self.RIFLESSO TWO

The second performance explores, in a highly sacred and spiritual context, the ritual power of recognizing one's self and embracing it with affection.

Date and Place: Trento Historic Center, Spazio Donde, April 2023Theme: The self and the dimension of sacred ritual, the self as the core of spirituality, the embrace as a gesture of self-care.RIFLESSO THREE

Inserted into the biggest queer event in Trento in 2024, this performance explores the projection of identity onto a fiercely queer body to investigate the power and fragility of self-esteem.

Date and Place: Trento Historic Center, San Martino District, June 2024Theme: Identity and queer body, the joy of living in diversity, experimenting with unbridled pride on a non-binary body, the limits of gender and the fluidity of identities, drag as an expressive mode and identity play.TESTIMONIALS ABOUT RIFLESSO

Barbara Cappello, President of the Italian Federation of Artists, Trento - Bolzano Section:

“What space do we have beyond the real one where we are? Who are we in that space? How do we relate to our self? We move towards a virtual space. We pass through the glass dividing the real space from the satellite-borne ether. Who are we in that apparent intimacy protected by the flat screen of images, information, and the database we have been interacting with for so long?

Here we are. That unreal space takes shape. It forms. That virtual self, embodied in the almost Kafkaesque guise of a glamorous beetle, no longer lying on its back shell but standing on fetish heels with legs transformed into tentacle-like phalanges, is the mirror of our metaverse being. No female. No male. No gender. The classifying boundaries crumble to begin, or rather to initiate our visions of a future without stains, free of guilt wielded by cultural dogmas. We are who we are. But are we afraid to be so? The dances open. The reflection invokes Dionysus in his mirrored image of a dual being. Without fear of the dark, we can access that altar where neon light illuminates our path to that goal… without forgetting that there we will find another threshold to approach.”

Andrea Deanesi, Actor + Vocal Coach and Natascia Belsito, Dancer + Choreographer:

“The risk of basing a performance on audience interaction is considerable, but the theme and Davide's approach greatly inspired us. We believe the work has great potential for development, and the underlying concept is very rich and profound. The performance was very well received by those present, and the version was adapted to our space. We could see the great sensitivity and attention with which the presentation was calibrated, the union between action and music gave a sense of care and tranquility. Those present engaged, with calm and listening.”

RIFLESSO is a project that combines thematic depth and audience interaction in an innovative and engaging performative journey. Each performance not only offers a space for reflection but also transforms the environment into a temporary museum, making each experience unforgettable.