Back in the 1980s a series of recordings called Hooked on the Classics set world-famous melodies by the greatest composers to a disco beat. Frequently used for aerobics classes, the music yesterday found a new incarnation when choreographer Amy Marshall brought her Summer Intensive to a close with a witty, non-stop dance for 37 young people - each wearing a dime-store swimcap. Click on each of Kokyat's photos to enlarge.
Olympic aquatic sports, Esther Williams and Busby Berkeley were the influences which inspired this large-scale work in an intimate setting.
Platform-diving motif. Solo moments abound, but they are brief.
Phalanx after phalanx of dancers sweep across the floor in complex patterns interwoven with gestures from the sports world.
One half-expected Esther William herself to materialize out of nowhere.
The work, which packs one classic 'hit' after another into its brief duration, was so full of motion and high spirits that I managed to shake off the blue funk that's had me down all week.
Final pose.
Amy and Chad with dancers from Amy's troupe. Left to right: Aileen Roehl, Amy, Chad, Alexandra Karigan and Louis Acquisto.
Family affair: Amy with her husband Chad Levy and their two-year-old twins.
We loved running in to Take Ueyama and Sharon Park. All photos: Kokyat.
This looks like so much fun! It also took me back as I was (and still am, believe it or not -- at 52 yet! But I gave up teaching 7 years ago. Hurt knee) a certified aerobics instructor from the mid 80's on (did it at night/weekends to help relieve the stress of my real job).
Amy Marshall's choreography looks wonderful! Thanks for such a energetic post (great pics too).
Posted by: Deborah | August 10, 2009 at 10:46 AM
Deborah, I think you would have really enjoyed this afternoon, Amy's style and the music she chose are so refreshing.
Posted by: Philip | August 10, 2009 at 12:04 PM