by Yvonne Hudson
Nothing stops the joyful artistry of Attack Theatre. Now that the company is settled in its new Lawrenceville studio, the 27-year-old company is enjoying the independence and flexibility of its own venue and rehearsal and education spaces. So when the weather challenged artists and audiences alike this week, the show went on.
Curiosity: The Play Book is a midwinter confection and early Valentine from one of the region’s most innovative and enduring dance troupes. The show is created from the improvisations and imaginations of the six company members choreographed by Artistic directors and co-founders Peter Kope and Michele de la Reza.
As Thursday night’s performance was canceled, a recording of a final dress rehearsal was provided to ticket holders. Essentially capturing all the major elements of the show, the streaming event connected those watching from home—including the artists in the piece. The three-camera shoot pays off with lots of angles, tighter shots, and wide shots that display the overall choreography.
The recording showed off most of the work audiences will see this weekend. Attack’s lovely space is showcased with the talents of the dancers who invented the movement moving through what was once a gym.
The performers/collaborators are Isabella Bergamin, Savionne Chambers, Lydia Clinton, Miranda Nichols, and Sarah Zielinski. All are stand-outs when featured individually and as ensemble members.
The show is constructed with prompts suggesting the themes for six chapters, from the opening “How to Dance with a Snowman,” with a charming inflatable partner center stage, to the finale, “Unbox.” Zielinski, the tap choreographer, is featured mid-program in the exuberant “Tap for Two.”
Pictured L-R | Foreground: Savionne Chambers, Miranda Nichols, and Isabella Bergamin | Background: Sarah Zielinski and Lydia Clinton
It’s danced to evocative music that includes many original compositions by Dave Eggar, Attack’s long-time music director. Company-member Dane Toney has created media especially showcased in the digital program and credits.
Catch the one-hour in person tomorrow, Saturday the 5th at 7 pm or the matinee at 2 pm which is a live sensory-friendly performance, tickets on sale now.
This is no intermission with audiences of no more than 40 patrons. Patrons must show proof of vaccination at the time of entry with a valid ticket. Non-cloth masks are required at all times of all staff and patrons while indoors, regardless of their vaccination status. For more information about the COVID-19 policy and exceptions, please visit attacktheatre.com/COVID.
Attack Theatre is 212 45th Street at Butler, Lawrenceville, 15201. Preview Attacks’s new location on the company website.
Categories: Reviews
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