Crazy Joanna

"Crazy Joanna"

In response to her Blind Passion (which deals with the purer side of passion) Jenni Wren concentrated her research on the dark side of passion in the creation of "Crazy Joanna" where Wren delivers a powerful take on domestic abuse not to be missed.

A hard hitting, socially conciencious work, brought to you through integration of dance and film, "Crazy Joanna" is the story of one womans struggle and eventual escape of a repetitive cycle she had endured through history to now.  Full of emotional content, dancer Dani Ferreira plays the role of Joanna in a dramatic tale depicting the journey she undertakes to break the repetitive chain of falling into abusive relationships.  "Crazy Joanna" was made in celebration of survivors of domestic abuse.

From the tormented life of medieval Spanish Queen ‘Juana la Loca', through the backstreets of Buenos Aires at the birth of the Tango - to a neighbourhood near you.

Photography:  James Rhodes

The original idea was loosely based on the film "Juana La Loca" a story of passion, lies, love and jealousy that transformed Juana, Queen of Spain, into Juana "The mad".  The idea evolved into a story about the reincarnation of a woman called Joanna who has lived countless lives born into different cultures on many continents but most frequently born into Spanish or Latin cultures.  Unknown to Joanna, she has been trapped in a repetitive cycle becoming romantically, sexually and emotionally involved with abusive partners whose role in the game of life is to torment, confuse, manipulate and control her emotions, actions and behaviours.

In this work you will see Joanna in three of her lifetimes, three time periods, in three countries and in three social classes.

"We attended the premier of this stunning production. If you are able to make the trip to Leeds, you will have an amazing evening. Dance and film together made an incredible vehicle to carry the message of control, pain and survival to the audience. Thought provoking and inspired!".  - DaiNa Project

For audience feedback click here

"Passion is an unstoppable force" - Jenni Wren"   "Crazy Joanna" explores the vulgar and dark side of "Passion" which is unstoppable, uncontrollable and torturous.  Jealousy is common in abusive relationships, when jealousy takes control, is this passion?  When a person suffers another's passion the effects can be devastating for both.

Painting:  "Into the light" by David Cobley

"Crazy Joanna" has been supported by many individuals, artist and organisations, primarily funded by the Arts Council England - Yorkshire.