Papalote, Jump Rope, Step on a Crack, Imbu

Aleksandra Gryka’s new work draws inspiration from four evocative video pieces, each capturing the spirit of childhood play as a form of resistance, expression, and connection. From the swirling dance of an Afghan boy guiding his unseen kite against the wind to a young girl reclaiming Hong Kong’s streets through a rhythmic game of avoidance, these moments reflect the intricate interplay between body, environment, and imagination.

For each film, Gryka tailors a distinct instrumentation within the Cikada Ensemble – sometimes using a single instrument, other times the full ensemble – to mirror the unique emotional and sonic worlds within the footage. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the kinetic energy of Nzango’s synchronised movement finds contrast in the eerie harmonies of boys imitating mosquito frequencies in Imbu. Through a sound-driven exploration of these films, Gryka’s music transforms the fleeting nature of play into a deeply expressive and immersive experience.