dance performance | Choreographer In The Cubicle

In January 2011, I watched Erica Frankel, a dancer I met at NYU create and document new choreography every single day. I was inspired by the challenge and the opportunity National Choreography Month presented; a call to action to set aside excuses and overcome obstacles to create new dance work. In 2012, I set aside my excuses and created new work, in four 1 1/2 hour rehearsals. We performed for the camera in the studio on the last rehearsal.

In 2013, Nachmo founders Sharyn Korey and Anna Brown-Massey suggested I organize a Boston showing for choreographers to share their work. I was both afraid and excited. If I organized a showing, I would have to submit my own work to be performed for the public, which would be in many ways for my company Intimations Dance.

Put excuses aside. I sent an email out to the Dance Action Network, an list-serv hub for dance happenings in Boston. Crickets. I posted on facebook, on my website, and emailed again. I almost called it off. Meghan McCaffrey, founder and artistic director of Impact Dance Company encouraged me not to give up so easily. So I sent one more email. Over 10 companies responded to my email, and from there the show fell into place. Green Street Studios contacted me about hosting the event and suddenly I had a venue, a date, and a 75 minute run time show.

80 audience members, including many dancers, teachers and choreographers from the Boston dance community, came out to see 9 new works. In addition to challenging choreographers to an intense month of dance-making, Nachmo hopes to create connections and gather energy that will last throughout the year. I am thrilled to have this event contribute to an already vibrant dance community here in Boston.

Here are some photos from the event by Kristophe Diaz and I look forward to Nachmo 5 and the second annual Nachmo Boston showing.