Watch Ur Mouth

About the work

“In a world filled with constant noise, inner turmoil, and external judgment, we all carry a weight. The pressure of the daily grind, the conflicting voices in our heads, and the expectations placed on us — it’s overwhelming. But in the midst of this chaos, there is also a strength that arises from connection, resilience, and love.

Watch Ur Mouth is a deeply personal reflection of these struggles. This performance embodies the journey of navigating the relentless chatter of everyday life — the critics, the doubts, and the noise we face. Inspired by the unwavering support of a strong partner and the unconditional love of my children, this work is a testament to the power of holding on, moving forward, and finding purpose.

For those who face the daily battle, I hope this piece reminds you to keep walking. Even in the toughest moments, remember the strength within you and the people who lift you up.”
– Botis Seva

Credits

Choreography: Botis Seva
Assistant to choreographer: Jordan Douglas, Victoria Shulungu
Music: with use of Bunny Sigler: 'Shake Your Booty'; Sony Music; Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. (BMI); Warner Chappell Music Holland B.V.

Vocal performances by Magero, The Seva Family.
Lighting design: Tom Visser
Set design: Botis Seva

Costume design: Botis Seva
NDT rehearsal directors: Lydia Bustinduy
Duration: 25 minutes
Premiere date: March 27, 2025
Premiere location: Amare, The Hague

Original cast

Nathan Allen, Maša Anić, Nathaniel Belnavis-Wright, Viola Busi, Eliana Hayward, Casper Mott, Nathanaël Plantier, Rebecca Speroni

This new creation is made possible with financial support from Ammodo

Instructor leads a group of participants during a dance workshop, with several hands raised in the studio.

Ensemble moves across the stage in low, dynamic positions under hazy lighting.

Rebecca Speroni about 'Watch Ur Mouth'

“For me Watch Ur Mouth is something in between darkness and hope. That tough moment in your life where you have a big desire to change, but the only way depends on your ability to use your will power to come up and face the challenges that life is putting you through.
The broader focus of your life is to avoid being discouraged by endings, and to see them as an opportunity for new beginnings.

We’ve been very lucky to have Botis here with NDT 2!!! As a contemporary dancer, the creation process with Botis Seva and his team was a full immersion in a world that was completely far from our style.

This piece was and it will be a challenging and rewarding experience, cause it allows us to express and release emotions throughout a completely different movement language. Even though we all have different journeys in this piece, the safety I feel inside of this group while dancing is so comforting and beautiful.”

Two dancers in matching costumes stand closely together under warm stage lighting.

Nathaniel Belnavis-Wright about 'Watch Ur Mouth'

“Seva’s work emanates from a place far greater than only having the theatre in mind. Watch Ur Mouth is larger than a piece; it’s a journey in reflection, in managing the hardships dealt with as an artist. The intrusive inner and outer voices that become a great deal in the way we show up.

Vulnerability is pushed to the forefront, serving as the reason for the movements. In fighting with exhaustion, Botis finds beauty within the battle rather than dismissing it, using it as another element of showing one’s vulnerability.

It’s a pleasure to be in the studio with Botis, along with Jordan and Victoria. Creating something culturally significant that differs strongly from the various repertoire I’ve had the ability to perform. The energy shared on stage feels as a celebration and acknowledgment of one’s journey accompanied by a beautiful auditory landscape, produced by Torben Sylvest. For the viewer and dancers, pride, love, poetry, and a youthful innocence are apparent, leaving a mark long after leaving the theatre.”