Katie Duck is a renowned multidisciplinary artist, performer, teacher and pioneer with a career spanning several decades.  Originally from the United States, she has lived in Italy, England and is now based in the Netherlands. Duck is celebrated for her innovative multidisciplinary approach to performance art, blending dance, theater, music, and text in her work.

Duck uses a microscopic view of improvisation as both a creative tool and a performance strategy. Her work often blurs the line between composition and spontaneity, challenging traditional notions of performance by incorporating elements of sound, voice, movement, and visual design into her practice. Her performances are often characterised by their spontaneity and interaction with the audience, as well as their exploration of themes such as vulnerability, identity, and the human experience.

Duck is also known for her dedication to teaching and mentoring young artists, leading workshops and residencies around the world. As a teacher, she has developed a distinctive teaching style that integrates multi disciplines into a holistic approach. She encourages performers to embrace their individual artistry while exploring the dynamics of collaboration. Her workshops focus on developing a heightened awareness of time, space, and presence in a sound driven performance platform. She has been involved in educational programs worldwide, influencing generations of artists.

A key figure in experimental performance, Duck’s contributions have significantly influenced contemporary processes towards real time performances. She has collaborated with musicians, dancers, and visual artists throughout her career, with performances that are often described as dynamic, raw, and deeply engaging.

www.katieduck.comIn this interview, multidisciplinary artist, performer, teacher, and improviser Katie Duck discusses her extensive career spanning four decades across Europe and the U.S. Based in Amsterdam, Katie describes her journey from acting to modern dance, mime, and collaborative improvisation with musicians. She emphasizes the importance of real-time composition, the role of choice in performance, and the significance of multidisciplinary approaches to create dynamic pieces. Katie also reflects on her inspirations, personal experiences, and the evolving relationship between performance and public engagement. The interview highlights her ethos of integrating diverse disciplines and emphasizes the political aspects of public performance.00:00 Introduction to Katie Duck01:40 Katie's Early Years in Acting02:23 Transition to Dance and Music04:24 Discovering Improvisation07:38 Improvisation vs. Real-Time Composition10:54 The Role of Choice in Performance23:25 Text and Vocalisation in Performance29:59 The Art of Movement Communication31:17 Exploring Text and Narrative in Performance31:46 Collaborative Dynamics with Julian Hamilton34:05 Non-Narrative Storytelling and Audience Engagement37:17 Personal and Environmental Influences in Art44:10 Creating Multidisciplinary Worlds on Stage50:05 The Role of Improvisation in Dance and Performance55:35 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions