The Philadelphia Dance Company, more popularly known as Philadanco returns to the Joyce Theater Oct. 2-7, 2012, for its annual New York season with an exciting program of works that reflect both the versatility of the dancers and the company’s longstanding commitment to working with choreographers in various stages of their careers. The New York 2012 season includes: the World premiere of “Moan” choreographed by Matthew Rushing; the New York premiere of Rennie Harris’ “Wake Up;” Ronald K. Brown’s “Gatekeepers” and the restaging of George Faison’s iconic work “Suite Otis.”
Led by Joan Myers Brown, Philadanco is one of Philadelphia’s cultural treasures and is recognized across the nation and around the world for its artistic integrity, superbly trained dancers and electrifying performances.
The highlight of the New York season is the world premiere of “Moan” by critically-acclaimed veteran Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater dancer, Matthew Rushing. Set to the music of Nina Simone, “Moan” is inspired by Rushing’s respect for the the power and passion of the “danco dancer.”
The intricate, propulsive “Wake Up” (2012/New York premiere), choreographed by Rennie Harris, explores the trajectory of Hip Hop music, from its birth to its profound impact on the communities from which it sprung. Dance Journal (Philadelphia) praised, “…the footwork was furious at times and controlled at others, proving that the dancers of PHILADANCO are brilliantly trained yet still versatile enough to feel and make the audience do the same.”
A tribute to the genius of the late Otis Redding, “Suite Otis” (1971) uses the beloved singer’s music in a full-company ballet that explores playful interactions between men and women. Choreographed by George Faison, “Suite Otis” is one of the most requested ballets in Philadanco’s repertory.
In “Gatekeepers,” created by Ronald K. Brown for Philadanco in 1999, the dancers represent soldiers walking toward heaven, searching for the wounded and preparing a safe haven for others to follow. It is a celebration of conscious continuity, interconnectedness, history, tradition and perseverance. Both PHILADANCO and Brown’s own company, Evidence, A Dance Company, will be touring “Gatekeepers” in 2012 as part of a social justice project that explores the theme of intergenerational caregiving through performances and targeted community outreach.
Performance schedule:
Mon-Wed, 7:30 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 8:00 p.m.; Saturday 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Dance Chat: Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.
For tickets and more information, call Joyce Charge at 212-242-0800 or visit joyce.org.
The Joyce Theater is located at 175 Eighth Avenue at 19th Street in New York City.
