| Description |
COVID-19 has drastically changed how the performing arts can hold shows. Currently, dance companies are presenting a mix of virtual and live but socially distanced content; however, these companies are facing increasing financial pressure, with the loss of ticket sales and cancellation of performances. Site-specific work is adaptable to these constraints: taking performance outside the traditional theater model is less costly and outdoor performances are safer than indoor shows. The term site-specific dance came about in the 1960's with post-modern dance choreographers starting to use alternate performance venues. Inspired by this modern dance lineage and recent performances by Salt Lake City artists, I created a series of three collaborative duets which were performed to small audiences at sites around my house: Don't Change in the Studios! with Berkeley Loper; It's a Magic Show! with Arin Lynn; and Hey! with Nora Lang. They are site-specific dance theater works which use voice, props, and improvisational elements. These three works were all adapted from previous duets we had created for other sites and were translated into a new context. The choreographic process and technical production were shaped by the sites we chose as well as the limitations of a pandemic and the atmosphere of current events. |
