ZAEK
Contemporary dance performance by surdce dance
ZAEK is a winter dance tale inspired by the ancient Bulgarian rite of passage koleduvane.
It follows the adventures of a boy known as the Rabbit, standing on the fragile threshold between childhood and adulthood. The Rabbit is small for his age, but quick and shrewd — agile, cunning, and determined to avoid the day when he must undergo the Ritual.
But one Sunday morning in late December, everything changes.
The tribe begins its ancient song. The elders dress in white shirts stitched with red thread. Slowly, they move toward the Rabbit, stamping their heels and sticks into the ground.
The Rabbit swallows hard.
Is there any way to avoid growing up?
Blending contemporary dance with folklore, rhythm, and ritual, ZAEK explores courage, transformation, and the moment when childhood gives way to the unknown.
About surdce dance
Surdce Dance is a London-based collective creating contemporary dance works rooted in Eastern European heritage. Through immersive performance, the company explores themes of ecology, migration, femininity, and identity.
Led by artistic directors Marchela-Vasilena Merchant and Stephanie Handjiiska, Surdce creates performances that connect ancient traditions with a contemporary sensibility.
The tour of ZAEK at Jacksons Lane is supported by the Touring Programme of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Bulgaria (2026) and the Mobility Programme of Sofia City Municipality (2026)
This is a guest event presented by an independent organisation or individual and is not part of Jacksons Lane’s core programme; please note that any regular Jacksons Lane discounts or offers don’t apply to this event.