Sixty now feels like a coherent whole. Over the last few weeks I was able to bring the whole cast of twenty people together for the first time. It was really thrilling to finally see in front of me what I’d been imagining for many months. The mix of dancers who have worked in the field for many years and others who are new to it and to New York produces a wonderful energy when we are all together.
This project already has a history. I find myself thinking about the beginning of working on it in the spring of 2007. I am deeply immersed in the creation of the piece, and simultaneously observing its creation. We have woven, overlaid, and repeated movement ideas, mirroring the merging of thoughts and memories that is the subject of Sixty. I see again that what you wind up with has everything to do with how you get there.
Despite our intense focus on finishing Sixty, the current economic crisis and the damage it will cause to artists and arts organizations is a presence we can’t ignore. The election looms. It’s exciting to witness this extraordinary moment in history. Our performances take place Nov 13-15 and 20-22, the two weeks between the election and Thanksgiving. I am hopeful that we will have something to be thankful for – Obama in the White House – and that our performances will be a celebration of our future.
Please join us for Sixty at the Danspace Project.
Risa,
You are Amazing! I am so inspired by your refreshing originality and dedication to your art. I would love to dance with you again. I will always remember the “Dancing the Journey” piece you created with the Voices of Women Organizing Project. May God continue to bless you as you light a spark in others to reclaim their lives.
All the best,
Tanya McLeod