The evil eye is a belief, found across many cultures, that someone can cause harm just by looking at you. Some believe that it is put upon us by others, while some believe that it comes from our own pride.

Instead of ignoring or repulsing the energy of the evil eye, this performance-ritual demands its mobilisation and transmutation. Shadows and unprocessed energies are welcomed, acknowledged, and transformed — with both hands.

Attuning to ancestral and contemporary rituals around the evil eye, n:u traces the contours of emotions and energies that transcend binaries of good and evil.

You are invited to enter this performance-ritual experimenting with ancient cosmologies: Vodún figures of the twins, Celtic folklore, and African knowledge systems.

duration 60min

Presented by Word of Warning + Contact for Works Ahead 2026.

Works Ahead 2026 commissioned by hÅb and Contact; produced by hÅb; supported using public funding by Arts Council England

Project Mentor: Peader Kirk

Artistic Direction, concept, performance, Choreography, Scenography: n:u (melissandre varin)

Performers for Work In Progress: Liz Ord

Photo documentation: Tamsin Drury

Work In Progress: 28,29 May 2026 - Contact Mcr Manchester, UK