Lifted Spirits
Even at his most straightforward, Paul Taylor often imbued his dances with a sardonic wit. Whether invoking darkness or light, he did so with a wink.
Continua a leggereWorld-class review of ballet and dance.
The last time I saw Michelle Dorrance perform in person was in her breakthrough production of “Soundspace” (2013). I remember my view from the risers at the short end of St. Mark’s Church, where she had gathered what seemed surely every available tap and body percussion artist in NYC. I remember the generosity with which she showcased her fellow artists—and also, socks. Imagine rhythm tappers wearing socks! It was an experiment that both paid tribute to the tap great, Jimmy Slyde, and protected the wood floors of the historic building. That show raised Dorrance’s star. She had already been recognized with the Princess Grace award. But soon came the MacArthur Foundation Fellowship and a Jacobs Pillow residency. At the Joyce this week, I was happy to see both generosity and slide still in evidence—if not actual socks. This program of three premieres doesn’t so much break new ground as celebrate what has led to this moment. Dorrance both looks back in homage and pays it forward by opening a door for a new artist collaborator, musician and vocalist, Aaron Marcellus.
Performance
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Claudia Rahardjanoto, Michelle Dorrance in ““45th & 8th.” Photograph by Steven Pisano
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Even at his most straightforward, Paul Taylor often imbued his dances with a sardonic wit. Whether invoking darkness or light, he did so with a wink.
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