Nate explaining the next improvisation exercise

Thank you to the 20+ folks who delivered their joy of creative movement today.  They have fueled our enthusiasm for producing MDPL 2010.  In the spirit of the 19 year tradition, we welcome the spectrum of dancers, from trained performers to courageous.  We were simply delighted to witness the range of possibilities, new and unexpected faces, strong support from our Core, and even one of the founders, in a full spectrum of experience.  This feels like the foundation for a beautiful and magical show.

We are grateful to Valerie and Nate, who taught the technique and improvisation parts, respectively.  Their devotion to their craft as fellow creatives and Circle Modern Dance truly shone.

Great dancers moving across the floor

When: August 29th, 2010 5:30-7:30 PM

Where: First Presbyterian Church, 620 State Street, Knoxville, Tennessee 37902

Who: Anyone who wants or loves to dance!

MDPL 2010 will be held Thursday, December 16 – Saturday, December 18, 2010 in the Laurel Theater.

An Audition Story

The sound of an audition can feel a little intimidating, but rest assured, you are in good company, whatever your level of technique.  In fact, my very first experience with Circle Modern Dance was an audition.  I had never attempted Modern Dance, and hadn’t taken ballet for over 10 years.  It was a creative whim to come, a suggestion from a friend, and after putting off the urge to dance for many years, I felt I owed this challenge to myself.  By the end of the audition, I had released tension in my body, exercised, danced, overcome some fear, and tried a bunch of new improvisational and modern dance techniques which were really fun.  I felt great, my body was happy, and I already had new acquaintances.

Little did I expect to not only perform for the first time in years, but I choreographed my first dance with 3 other amazing dancers.  The experience of rehearsals and the encouraging atmosphere of Circle led me through the the blocks of fear and into the creative process of a dancer and choreographer.  Rehearsals were enlivening, and each Sunday technique class brought me deeper into the joy of dance.  My first Primitive Light show marked a milestone in my life as a dancer.  Today, I am honored and grateful to Circle for the amazing opportunities which surround me, both within the Circle and outside, as a dancer, choreographer, and organizer.  Without this community, I may not have realized that my body, too, has the right to dance.

For more information about Modern Dance Primitive Light 2010:  mdpl2010@circlemoderndance.com.