Summer Stages Dance, an unusual summer program at Concord Academy, had a fundraiser today, a Dance Feast. From noon to five, people of all ages and abilities could take classes with top choreographers and try ballet, modern dance, hip hop, Indian dance, Isadora Duncan dance, Irish dance, yoga, rope performance, Ghanaian dance, taiko drumming, and more.
At 5 p.m., the choreographers and their companies presented short performances in the gym. The program was characterized not only by inventive movement but by intellect, emotion, and humor.
I was particularly moved by Catherine Gallant’s second selection from the work of Isadora Duncan. The first selection was lovely and what you might expect of Isadora Duncan, sort of woodland nymphs. The second was fierce, angry, passionate. I was amazed.
Also powerful was David Dorfman‘s on-the-spot creation, a dance with words.
Amy Spencer and Richard Colton are the married dance team behind Summer Stages. They teach at Concord Academy. Their summer program gives professional choreographers a time to create while also teaching some classes and performing. It has been going 15 years and is considered quite unique in the country.
David Parker, son of the late mystery writer Robert B. Parker, is a regular participant. I’m including a sample of his work. He brings a lot of humor to his choreography. Today he did the Velcro dance, Slap-Stuck. Search on YouTube for “Sisters and Misters” or “Nut-Cracked,” Parker’s version of the traditional Christmas favorite.
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