The National Pavilion of the United Arab Emirates is presenting And What Did You Say? (2026), a new performance work by artist Taous Makhacheva, as part of the Whispering exhibition at the 61st International Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale.
The exhibition is curated by Bana Kattan, with associate curator Tala Nassar, and runs across 24, 25, 26, and 28 July, with 2 performances daily at 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes. And What Did You Say? is divided into 2 complementary axes that blend movement and interaction: a choreographed performance and an interactive seat fitted with a sound installation.
The seat contains openable compartments housing the props and costumes used during the performance. Positioned at the pavilion entrance, it features earphones carrying a pre-recorded dialogue text that guides visitors through internal monologues, scripted conversations, and audio commentary on the historical and contemporary uses and consequences of gossip.
The work explores the multiple uses and functions of gossip — including care, solidarity, knowledge exchange, coping strategies, commentary, surveillance, and harm. In the performance, Taous Makhacheva approaches gossip with curiosity about its possibilities, reflecting on the idea of