Meaning: Siobhan Davies, a renowned dancer, expresses in this quote the contrasting attitudes toward dance in different locations. She highlights the open-mindedness and receptiveness of audiences in London, where there is an understanding and appreciation for the creative process and the development of new ideas in dance. This quote reflects the dynamic relationship between dancers and their audiences, as well as the influence of a city's cultural atmosphere on the perception of artistic expression.

The quote suggests that in London, there is an audience that is willing to embrace and support innovative and experimental dance performances. This reflects the city's rich history and tradition of nurturing artistic creativity and pushing boundaries in various art forms. London has long been a hub for diverse cultural influences and artistic experimentation, which has contributed to the development of a sophisticated and open-minded audience for dance and other performing arts.

Davies' mention of "the bricks of ideas built over a period" points to the gradual and cumulative nature of artistic evolution. In London, audiences have witnessed the progression and evolution of dance, and as a result, they are more inclined to accept and appreciate unconventional or avant-garde approaches to the art form. This suggests that there is a deeper understanding of the creative process and the significance of pushing the boundaries of dance in London's cultural landscape.

The phrase "out on a limb" implies that what may be considered unconventional or daring in other places is more readily accepted and understood in London. This could be attributed to the city's history of embracing innovation and diversity in the arts. London's diverse and multicultural population, along with its status as a global cultural center, has contributed to a climate where experimentation and originality are valued and celebrated.

Furthermore, Davies' perspective sheds light on the importance of the audience in shaping the direction of dance and other art forms. A receptive and open-minded audience can inspire and embolden dancers to explore new territories and take creative risks. In London, where there is an audience that desires dance to push its boundaries, dancers may feel more empowered to challenge traditional norms and explore unconventional ideas, knowing that their artistic endeavors will be met with understanding and enthusiasm.

It is also worth noting that Davies' quote can be seen as a commentary on the broader cultural and artistic landscape of different cities. The attitudes and expectations of audiences can vary significantly from one location to another, influencing the types of performances that are produced and the artistic risks that are taken. In this sense, the quote speaks to the symbiotic relationship between artists and their audiences, and how the cultural context of a city can shape the creative expression and reception of dance and other art forms.

In conclusion, Siobhan Davies' quote captures the nuanced interplay between artists and their audiences, as well as the cultural dynamics that influence the reception of dance. It underscores the significance of a supportive and open-minded audience in fostering innovation and creativity in the arts, and the role of a city's cultural climate in shaping the evolution of artistic expression. Through her words, Davies offers a compelling insight into the distinctiveness of London's dance audience and the environment that enables dance to flourish and evolve in exciting and unconventional ways.