The Dublin Dance Festival arrives next month bringing a whole host of exciting, experimental and entertaining shows. GCN takes a look at a selection of works that highlight the LGBT+ experience.

There will be a screening of the documentary Rebels On Pointe, the untold story of the world-famous Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo. Judging by the trailer, it seems like a must-see for those interested in gay history and how the community has rebelled against oppression. It documents the all-male comic ballet company which was founded in the 1970s on the heels of New York’s Stonewall riots and grew to gain a cult following around the world. The company say that while the performances may be hilarious, the dancing is no joke. The film takes a peek behind the curtains at the company and their stories.

Irish trailblazing dancer and choreographer Oona Doherty, in collaboration with renowned DJ David Holmes, present Hard To Be Soft – A Belfast Prayer. Doherty has created some amazing works, and her solo dance, choreographed by Emma Martin, midway through Enda Walsh’s Arlington in The Abbey Theatre was the highlight of the show for many. This new show explores masculinity, sectarianism, culture, class and sexuality and is based on the experience of living in today’s Belfast. It features a unique cast of performers including Hip-Hop dancers from Belfast’s Ajendance Youth Dance Company.

From South Africa, comes And so you see… A cheeky pair up between the controversial choreographer and societal commentator, Robyn Orlin, and Albert Khoza, a young flamboyant performer from Soweto. Khoza’s exuberant and outrageous performance will ask questions such as why can’t you be gay and traditional? The trailer manages to look both playful and experimental.

As well as the shows highlighted, there’s bound to be something to appeal to LGBT+ dance fans.

Check out Dublin Dance Festival website for further details.