Rafael Bonachela: Five Things I Love About Sydney

Rebecca Varidel
3rd Mar 2015

Dancer, choreographer. Sydney Dance Company Artistic Director, Rafael Bonachela was born in Barcelona where he began his early dance training before moving to London, and in 1992 joined the legendary Rambert Dance Company.

In 2008, Rafael premiered his first full-length production 360° for Sydney Dance Company. Less than six months later, he was appointed Artistic Director making headlines around the dance world. His vision for the Company embraces a guiding principle that has seen the repertoire grow with the addition of commissioned dance works from Australian and visiting international guest choreographers. The premiere works are often programmed alongside Rafael’s own creations, ensuring diversity for audiences and providing much sought after opportunities for his remarkable ensemble of dancers to be exposed to the work of some of the most in-demand choreographers of our time.

While we are eagerly waiting this week for the opening of Sydney Dance Company season of Frame Of Mind, we spoke to Rafael Bonachela outside dance rehearsals.

The Five Things I Love About Sydney : Rafael Bonachela

1. Bondi to Bronte
The walk from Bondi to Bronte is such a beautiful coastal pleasure – I love it down there in the early mornings as the sun is rising or after grabbing a coffee and spending time in the sunshine and going for a dip in the water. Very relaxing!

2. Organic food markets in Kings Cross on Saturday
There is such a vibrant energy around the markets on a Saturday morning. People bustling about to get their fresh produce for the week, or simply just popping down to enjoy some of the cultural delights – the one in Kings Cross is close to where I live so it’s so easy to get down there nice and early.

3. Sydney Theatre
I love going to the theatre and seeing new productions, and I think being so closely connected to Sydney Theatre has deepened my love of this art form. The escape into another’s story is wonderful and the theatre itself is such a fabulous venue that I always enjoy going to.

4. Camp Cove Beach
This little beach at Watson’s Bay is absolutely one of my favourites. It’s tucked away near the Watson’s Bay ferry wharf and is so tranquil and picturesque. I love that you can go swimming there, snorkelling, and even diving! Oh and the view, the view of the harbour and the city skyline is to die for!

5. The Wharf, Walsh Bay
I’m so lucky to work in one of the most beautiful locations in Sydney, and also a very vibrant spot - the arts precinct on the wharves of Walsh Bay. I often come in to work early and start my day by taking a breakfast and coffee looking out over the harbour from an outdoor table at Bar Cycle. For lunch and dinner I am spoilt for choice with so many amazing bars and restaurants to enjoy. Some of my favourites are Fratelli Fresh (Café Sopra), The Bar at the End of the Wharf and of course, the Sydney Dance Lounge.