January News, Contemporary Dance, and More
the who, the what, the where!
Dear reader,
Rumor has it that I took initiative? And I went in the studio? And planned a contemporary class?!
Yes, the rumors are true. January 16th I’m hosting + teaching a contemporary class from 10-11:30am at The Floor on Atlantic. My friend, Leandria Lott will be there to provide musical spirit. I am kind of thrilled at my ADHD self for doing this with all things considered. None of the studios that we dancers love to trot to emailed me back so, I decided to host a class myself (Mantra: I will invest in myself and my art, even when I get rejected) And like everything in my life, I don’t move forward unless I am passionate about it *cues a small little rant*:
The word in the dance concert industry streets says that “contemporary” dance is out…? I’m not sure when it left. Apparently, it has an almost derogatory name to it now. I think people are making sh**t up. I know that the word sometimes stirs up the whispers of assimilation to whiteness but my god… not all contemporary dance is deviated from ballet and I cannot help the fact that I love finding form deviated from ballet! Nuance! I beat myself up about my lack of “turnout” for too many years to not enjoy what I enjoy without shame! My friends and I are contemporary dancers and we love it. We love dancing big, taking up space, finding a challenge from this form and then breaking it. So, I made this class for them :) If that sounds like fun to you, then please come!
I started a book club last month. We’re reading The Black Dancing Body by Brenda Dixon Gottschild. Our next meetings this month are on the following dates: Jan 12th, Jan 19th, Jan 26th. My goal for this is to invite her to a meeting where we can ask the legend questions either this month or next. Stay tuned for more news on that.
Lastly, I’m performing this month for Kiss My Face at 3 Dollar Bill *screams internally from the anxiety*. I’m feeling a little nervous to perform. Ever since C19, I developed an intense feeling of stage fright. I am still trying to process why, but I do know that the only thing to do is go through it. I’m also a little worried because-Nina Simone said that an artist’s duty is to reflect the times… that’s what I strive for at least. And I really hope that with everything that I do, I can at least commit to that. Even if- especially if- the venue is a club. So, I hope to see you there!
That’s all for now! I hope you are all having a great start to your new year!
Love,
Joy-Marie