Concert halls and theatres are among the few remaining spaces in our contemporary world where the constant bombardment of information finally stops. For a few hours, phones and laptops rest, and our busy minds are invited to focus. But are we still capable of such simplicity? Can we do one thing at a time—merely listen, breathe, and be present?

Moments of Idleness is an exploration of attention, stillness, and the subtle movement of time, devised by Milena Knauss in partnership with Lana Bode. Through moments of pause and interruption—sometimes literally stopping mid-song—the performance plays with our collective ability to dwell in idleness. What arises when stimulation ceases? Boredom, anxiety, restlessness—or, perhaps, beauty, creativity, and longing?

For both artists and audience, this concert becomes an experiment in presence. The performers test their own capacity to resume the musical flow after silence; the listeners confront their reactions to these suspensions of sound. Within these pauses, imagination and awareness may emerge—the quiet space where art and innovation take root.

Moments of Idleness is conceived as a site-specific performance along the River Thames. The environment—wind, trees, light, ripples, birdsong—becomes an active collaborator. Music serves here as a dialogue between human expression and the Thames itself, celebrating the river's flow while inviting attention through shared presence. After the performance, the audience is invited to join the artists for a cup of tea by the river—to exchange reflections, impressions, and silences, continuing the concert's theme of contemplation and connection. This Thames-centric work honours the festival's river celebration and explores sustainability through presence.

Dates/locations to be confirmed soon.