Phoenix Dance Theatre presents Inside Giovanni’s Room, a full-length dance production inspired by one of the most important novels of the 20th century, James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room. Set in 1950s Paris, the new dance work follows Baldwin’s narrative, influenced by its themes of love, sexuality, guilt, and self-acceptance. All these bearing relevance to identity within the human experience.  

In celebration of the 100th Birthday of James Baldwin, Artistic Director and choreographer, Marcus Jarrell Willis, unpacks this thought-provoking novel, using the vehicle of dance, in collaboration with German percussionist and composer, Marc Strobel and Welsh stage and set designer Jacob Hughes. Original lighting and costume design by Luke Haywood and Melissa Parry will further bring this new dance production to life. This will be an exciting moment for Phoenix Dance Theatre, presenting a narrative work through the lens of dance, at a time that still reflects a need to explore and allow space for such a poignant and relevant topic of humanity.  

Creating and presenting a dance production inspired by a world renown Black author, one of the greatest of his time, aligns with the company’s history. The founders of Phoenix Dance Theatre dared to create a platform to share their stories and lived experiences through the artform of dance. These efforts continue in present times. Celebrating a century since the birth of James Baldwin and forging forward four decades since the inception of Phoenix Dance Theatre, this new dance production will mark a continuation, acknowledging those who paved the way for us, while illuminating the relevance and relatability of where we are now. 

Creative team 
Choreography Marcus Jarrell Willis  
Music Composition Marc Strobel  
Stage Design Jacob Hughes  
Lighting Design Luke Haywood  
Costume Design Melissa Parry  
Dramaturguy Tonderai Munyebvu