Choreographer John Zullo has been giving a series of workshops at Dance New Amsterdam during the month of January. I dropped in at one of these Raw Movement classes where, after an interesting set of warm-up patterns on the floor, the dancers explored movement elements derived from John's choreographic work. Energy emanating from different parts of the body is set in flowing sequences, and moments of stillness alternate with dynamic moves and gestures which create an intense feeling. Control of balance, awareness of the body in the space. and of the breathing mechanism become under-lying elements as the combinations develop increased complexity.
John encourages the dancers to sense the flow of motion thru all parts of the body.
I loved the light in the studio, but my camera was acting up so I only had a few images from the afternoon.
My friend Yuki Ishiguro (above) was taking the workshop...
...but the girls I don't know by name though they look familiar, so if you see someone you know here, shoot me an e-mail oberon481@hotmail.com
Catching up with John (above) briefly after the session, he told me he'll be creating a work for the annual La Mama Moves festival this year - details will be forthcoming - as well as presenting his own evening of work, to include ALL what THIS do HAS you HAPPENED see BEFORE which was premiered at the LaMama Spoleto Open Festival in Spoleto, Italy.
John mentioned the film Mysterious Skin as a likely source of inspiration for a new creation, and he'll delve into the process when he starts a Field Artist Residency in February. I'll be checking in on his progress in the weeks ahead.
