Celebrating 35 Years of Dancefusion: A Spectacular Showcase of Artistry and Community, Sept 8-9

In a dazzling culmination of creativity, history, and community spirit, Dancefusion is gearing up to celebrate its 35th anniversary with a two-day extravaganza that promises to captivate dance enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Founded in 1987 by the visionary Artistic Director Gwendolyn Bye, Dancefusion has established itself as Philadelphia’s premier modern dance repertory company. With a steadfast commitment to preserving historical works while nurturing contemporary expressions, the company has navigated the challenges of the past three years with resilience, and now, it’s ready to set the stage ablaze once again.

The upcoming anniversary celebration will unfold over two programs, each brimming with exquisite performances and artistic collaborations that showcase the profound connection between dance and our world. Program A and Program B are set to take place on September 8th and 9th, respectively, in conjunction with the FringeArts Festival.

The heart of these programs lies in the revival of Mary Anthony’s masterpiece “Threnody,” a mesmerizing dance piece inspired by John Milton Synge’s Play, “Riders to the Sea.” This poignant choreographic creation is a testament to Dancefusion’s dedication to breathing life into historic works, offering audiences a glimpse into the rich tapestry of dance history. Alongside “Threnody,” Mary Anthony’s solo “By The Shore” will further illuminate the stage with its evocative movements and emotional depth.

The celebration continues with Janet Pilla Marini’s playful ensemble work, “Weathervane,” which promises to inject a burst of energy and lightheartedness into the performance. Dancefusion has always been known for its ability to seamlessly blend classical elegance with contemporary vibrancy, and “Weathervane” is a true embodiment of this dynamic fusion.

Stepping beyond their own creative boundaries, Dancefusion will be joined by an array of esteemed guests, each contributing their unique artistic expressions to the festivities. Miriam Giguere will revive Ellen Forman’s timeless duet “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” The revival, expertly updated for the 21st century, promises to be a slice of life portrayed through dance, capturing the essence of human experiences and emotions.

Kun-Yang Lin/Dancers, Dance Iquail!, Jim Bunting Dance Company, and Neeka Guenther from Eastern University Dance Ensemble will also grace the stage, presenting their own works from their diverse repertoires. This collaboration underscores the sense of unity and interconnectedness that dance can foster within a community.

The journey of Dancefusion over the past three years has been nothing short of remarkable. In the face of the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company embraced innovation and resilience. The 2020-2021 season saw Dancefusion embracing virtual platforms, using outdoor spaces, and even incorporating dancers’ homes into their performances. This adaptive approach not only allowed the company to continue sharing their art but also deepened the emotional connection between the dancers and their audience during a time of lockdowns and isolation.

As restrictions eased, Dancefusion returned in the 2021-2022 season, presenting captivating performances such as “Dance Voices” and “Winter Fest,” showcasing the indomitable spirit of the dance community. A significant highlight during this period was the reconstruction of Pauline Koner’s “Concertino,” which was met with resounding acclaim when presented at the American Dance Guild Festival in New York City.

Now, in the eagerly anticipated 2022-2023 season, Dancefusion has once again dazzled audiences with their FringeArts program “Envisions” and the beloved holiday production “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Taking their artistry beyond Philadelphia, they embarked on a tour to New York City, where they showcased their reconstruction of Pauline Koner’s exquisite piece, “Concertino,” reaffirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of modern dance.

This year’s anniversary celebration is not only a testament to Dancefusion’s artistic excellence but also a tribute to the enduring power of dance to bring people together, uplift spirits, and transcend challenges. With a creative team that boasts luminaries such as Artistic Director Gwendolyn Bye, reconstructor Ellen Forman, choreographer Kun-Yang Lin, and many others, Dancefusion continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression while honoring the rich legacy of dance.

As Dancefusion’s 35th anniversary approaches, the anticipation is palpable. The stage is set for a captivating journey through time, culture, and emotion, where the universal language of dance will unite performers and audiences in a celebration of art, community, and the human spirit. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this momentous occasion and witness the magic of Dancefusion as it continues to inspire, innovate, and ignite the world of dance.