Description
As a pioneer of new tap dance, Michelle Dorrance has elevated the clacking of metal taps to an entirely new level. She has always sought to engage with other styles and with contemporary dance. Now, in collaboration with New York breakdancer Ephrat Asherie, Dorrance enters into a dialogue with street dance, which, like tap dance, originally emerged as a subversive form on the streets, rooted in protest and growing through improvisation. From the reflections of these two strong women, a connection develops, and other dancers contribute their own styles, such as body percussion, house, or Chicago footwork. Set to music by Donovan Dorrance, the piece is not about virtuosity or competition. It has a more serious theme, namely the current state of the world, where people wear masks to protect themselves. Dialogue gives rise to the question of whether the center, the middle of humanity, can hold – or whether everything will break apart and our world will plunge into chaos.
Duration: approx. 70 minutes no intermission
Age guidance: from 6 years
The work explores themes of isolation, community and solidarity. At one point, the whole cast lined up and performed a sequence of rhythmic pedestrian gestures. It seemed they were just humans, like us. But then they broke off into solos and dance-offs and we were reminded of their otherworldly talents. There was pain there, yes, but also so much joy. — The New York Observer
The result is an emotional and artistic puzzle of styles with a clear emotional arc that is thrilling to witness. — The New York Observer
With each performance of Dorrance Dance, tap expands. — The New York Times
It isn’t just about flawless technique and battles and one-up(wo)manship and community — though those elements are there, of course. There is something else, too — something softer, a bit surreal and very human. — The New York Observer
With live music
