Site Specific Dancing Edit

Kate-Watson-Wallace Anonymous Bodies Redefine Modern Dance
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Ditching the stage and going public, Philadelphia based modern choreographer Kate Watson-Wallace is creating “site based performances that re-imagine everyday spaces.” Except, it is not called ‘modern’ anymore, it is called, contemporary dance.

The implication of seeing a ‘modern dance performance’ often suggests spending more than the price of a movie ticket, to venture into a “rough” part of town to see “abstract” movement. However, with practically zero funds for the arts, securing an affordable theatre space is harder than retaining dancers. This is the least of Kate’s problems as her dances are contrived in and around familiar spaces.

Choreographer and Director of Kate-Watson-Wallace Anonymous Bodies, Kate has made work that takes place around a dinner table, in a closet, in a bathroom and with video allusion, in bed. Witnessing her dancers mold themselves into the nooks and crannies of these personal spaces is shocking yet significant to the social and economic challenges faced by artists today. Can’t afford to rent a proscenium theatre? Do it yourself, and make a dance in a bathroom. Even better, film it and play it on YouTube.

Kate’s second piece in her American Trilogy series, CAR, ventures into public space. From physical to psychological, her dancers personify the personal rituals occur in a car. CAR can also be viewed in full length online for FREE!

Site specific dancing gone digital is a win win situation and will lead modern dance into a realm of possibilities as social interaction rapidly changes.