Tabula Rasa: let's begin again modern dance and social activism

As a dance artist I have always felt the desire to explore societal issues, yet I never saw how necessary this exploration was to my well-being as an individual. Post- 9/11 America has led me to question my value as an artist and contributor to my society. Can dance really make a difference? Researching how other choreographers, past and present, have tackled social issues in their work gave me great insight into how to contribute to the social dialogue through movement and metaphor. The creation of my own work in response to post-9/11 American society has allowed me to make meaning of this chaotic time and reinforce my belief in the power of dance to promote change in individuals who both witness and experience dance. This may lay the ground work for change in society at large.