With the economy and giving community in the grips of an extreme "loss of confidence", it has been difficult to raise money, although this will pass as it always has and does.
Those of you who visit the website or are signed up for the company newsletter know that we will be doing an open rehearsal format event on November 2nd. Several new and exciting developments there, Guest Jonathan Krebs is dancing Kaelen OShea's part in Davy Brun's "Curse", Scott Trumbo and Melissa will reprise their short but elegant pas from "Momentary Glimpse" and the first section of "GIRL" is finished and will be performed also.
Of all of the known and expected frustrations and challenges of running a company, I have been surprised by the intensity of one in particular. I would give almost anything to be able to support the individual and group development of these extraordinary dancers. With a small but consistent budget I could give Megan performing experience, allow Scott to move closer to town, keep Angela in town dancing with us, keep Edgar dancing without having to worry about money, have Keely in class, prove beyond a shadow of a doubt to Tracy what a powerhouse performer she is...
Each of the dancers has their own challenges to face outside of the studio, but in rehearsals and performances they band together to make a uniquely comfortable family of people in a way that is enviable and extraordinary. The loss of Angela Napier to Idaho Ballet was and is felt throughout the organization but she remains present though FaceBook and visits. As a dancer myself in the classical world I often felt disposable, as if the company could always get someone else and that my personal stamp on the roles that I danced was disposable, a nice but unnnecessary side effect.
I can't imagine this attitude now as a Director. These are unique people who bring something so personal and unique to their efforts that to do without them would be unthinkable.
Some good news!
Renee Adams is developing out first Young Audiences program. We will audition it in January and if accepted, can look forward to performing in schools in the Fall of 2009. This will serve to familiarize the company to the larger community in Portland and will provide some extra income for the dancers.
Recently Bouand DanceCompany has received quite a few inquiries into auditions, or membership in the company from as far away as Israel and Spain! The wonders of YouTube and the Internet.
Choreographers Caetanyo Soto, Immanuel Gat, Lucy Guerin, Bebe Miller, Erica Trivett and Davy Brun are all available or eager to choreograph for us in the new year, a roster of talent that is extraordinary for such a young company as ours!! Watch the website for announcements for 2009-2010.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you have ideas, support, comments and questions about Bouand DanceCompany.
Ardent, eloquent and intelligent dance---are you watching?
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