MMC Presents Original Student Choreography in Dancers at Work

This year’s student choreographers are Amber Patee Adams ’12, Tre Chesson ’12, Ian Klein ’11, Natalie Kolbo ’12, Clinton Edward Martin ’12, Michael Nameishi ’11, Suzzy Ponomarenko ’12, Kaitlyn Salisbury ’12, Olivia A. Warren ’11, Alex Wood ’11 and Lindsey K. Yacobush ’11. 

The B.A. dance majors will also perform a new piece by Erika Pujic, one of the founding members of Battleworks Dance Company. 

Students started creating their pieces in September and have consistently rehearsed for an hour and half, twice a week, since that time. The choreographers were responsible for coordinating all of the elements of the performance, including technical aspects like costumes, music, lighting and movement. 

“It really isn’t a lot of time,” said Martin, who has participated in DAW for the last three years, “but it does prepare those of us that want to do this once we graduate for what the dance world demands. Studio space costs money. Dancers cost money. There is no time to waste in the rehearsal process, and the way to make money is to produce performances. It is very stressful, but somehow the show always comes together and everyone always makes it out alive.” 

The show is a learning experience in more ways than one. Martin says the experience affects the student both as a performer and choreographer. 

“As a creator, the responsibility of knowing where you want to go with a piece and how you are going to get there is a bit overwhelming,” he said. “As a dancer, the responsibility of being a vessel for a choreographer’s vision and finding the balance between giving what the choreographer wants while also infusing your own artistry as a dancer is extremely difficult. I learn so much from my dancers about being a performer, and having the chance to perform has taught me so much about choreography.” 

Yacobush, a first-year choreographer said, “I feel very comfortable in the role of a choreographer. It’s also wonderful to have your peers as your dancers. [They] are willing to try anything. My cast is spectacular and I’m so fortunate [to have] all of them.” 

For ticket reservations and information, contact the dance department at (212) 517-0610. 

Written by: Katherine Meade ’14, English major and student worker with MMC’s Office of College Relations and Advancement. 

Marymount Manhattan College is an urban, independent, liberal arts college. The mission of the College is to educate a socially and economically diverse student body by fostering intellectual achievement and personal growth and by providing opportunities for career development.

Published: September 29, 2012