M.O.V.E. - Grant's Safari

Last week I had the pleasure of witnessing Grant's Safari, from Javanna Productions, under the creative direction of Nicole Johnson. When it comes to the Safari you might imagine a ruthless world but in watching 'Grant's Safari', I had a very different experience. It's complexity was worth being taken on a journey through.

Nicole Johnson derived inspiration from her brother who is a member of the autistic community. She explained that there is no need to focus on the limitations of these individuals. They have many talents and aspirations. She tapped into her brothers driving force, which happens to be the Safari. Her brother, Grant Johnson can name more animals and facts about them than anyone she knows. This fascinating truth is why Nicole decided to collaborate with him to create 'Grant's Safari'.

You can follow Nicole Johnson's community efforts here: JPmove.webs.com!

ALLIANCE: Part 5 - Klara Beyeler

Klara Beyeler can handle a storm. Everything we ask of her is never too much and she is always in the best of spirits. She consistently pushes herself beyond her boundaries and because of this, her artistry will forever have exponential growth.

On April 6th and 7th, Enforced Arch is presenting their latest work, ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, which features past and current pieces by creative directors James Koroni and Tracey Katof. Klara Beyeler is a member of this project and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have her join us on this adventure! After rehearsal this past week we had an opportunity to ask her a few questions…

How do you as an individual live the 'ALLIANCE' of Art & Activism?

By being as open and authentic as I can. By being open, I learned and got more interest about how little behavior of the everyday life can make the difference. It reminds me that being part of a hole group, city, country, earth; through my actions, I inevitably share positive or negative energy with the world. I think we all should be aware of this responsibility and have the consciousness of what kind of energies and ideas you spread around you.

By being myself and trusting my instinct, I wish I can make that little difference for someone in the audience and make him feel the message.

What part of the rehearsal process or subject material did you find most inspiring?

I am fascinated how art and specially dance is a powerful way to share an idea and to make people want to act differently. During the process I was very touched by the emotion that Tracey and James are able to express through choreography. An extreme strong feeling to dance it, and I think it will be the most efficient point to get the audience understand the matter of activism : its when you're emotionally moved that you start care about.

What did you learn from your experiences that you would like to share with others?

By leaving home to explore another culture, I open my mind more and more because I am consistently facing different behavior and way of thinking. I experience every day that judgement, resistance, fight or any negative reaction doesn't help. That's why I always try to share those ideas with all my love and compassion through my dance and life.

For TICKETS to ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, click here: EnforcedArch.com/tickets/

ALLIANCE: Part 1 – Lauren Cox ALLIANCE: Part 2 – Charles Alexis Desgagnes ALLIANCE: Part 3 – Katherine Roarty ALLIANCE: Part 4 – Alexandra Shieron ALLIANCE: Part 5 – Klara Beyeler ALLIANCE: Part 6 – Clara Lofaro ALLIANCE: Part 7 - Julio Hugo Penagos

ALLIANCE: Part 4 - Alexandra Shieron

Alexandra Shieron is a gem. Her positive attitude, kind nature and professionalism are unwavering from the moment you meet her. Needless to say, her performance is full of charisma.

On April 6th and 7th, Enforced Arch is presenting their latest work, ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, which features past and current pieces by creative directors James Koroni and Tracey Katof. Alexandra Shieron is a member of this project and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have her join us on this adventure! After rehearsal this past week we had an opportunity to ask her a few questions…

How do you as an individual live the 'ALLIANCE' of Art & Activism?

I'm a firm believer in what you get out of life is what you put into it. I give myself energetically to whatever I believe in and treat the world around me how I want to be treated. So when I witness something that doesn't seem right I want to express how I feel and fix it immediately. Unfortunately, one person can't fix the world's problems so I do my own small part on a daily basis. Whether that's eating organically, helping a friend in need, volunteering or making people aware of issues that affect them. I love that my passion- dance- can help unite people to a greater cause.

What part of the rehearsal process or subject material did you find most inspiring?

My favorite part of this process is working in the studio with my fellow dancers figuring out all the nuances of the choreography and what drives the dance forward. What my intention is, how to portray it and really delving into the role. It's inspiring to see what comes from working and interacting with such talented dancers. Being in rehearsal with Enforced Arch is such a treat as the issues they bring forward with their movement are aligned with what I believe in and want to share.

What did you learn from your experiences that you would like to share with others?

Living, dancing and performing in New York City is a very competitive, hectic scene. It's all too easy to forget why you dance, what you believe in and get caught up in the grind. Being able to dance in such a nurturing, caring environment with James and Tracey has really reminded me that dance (and life) is not just about tricks and flash but to move an audience in ways they don't normally experience. I want to continue on this path and use my art to inspire and educate people.

For TICKETS to ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, click here: EnforcedArch.com/tickets/

ALLIANCE: Part 1 – Lauren Cox ALLIANCE: Part 2 – Charles Alexis Desgagnes ALLIANCE: Part 3 – Katherine Roarty ALLIANCE: Part 4 – Alexandra Shieron ALLIANCE: Part 5 – Klara Beyeler ALLIANCE: Part 6 – Clara Lofaro ALLIANCE: Part 7 - Julio Hugo Penagos

ALLIANCE: Part 3 - Katherine Roarty

Katherine Roarty has such incredible strength and charisma. It's exhilarating to see someone with such poise on stage especially because there is nothing this young lady can not do! On April 6th and 7th, Enforced Arch is presenting their latest work, ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, which features past and current pieces by creative directors James Koroni and Tracey Katof. Katherine Roarty is a member of this project and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have her join us on this adventure! After rehearsal this past week we had an opportunity to ask her a few questions…

Enforced Arch: How do you as an individual live the 'ALLIANCE' of Art & Activism?

Katherine Roarty: Nothing is more honest than the relationship to another person in space. The touch of another human can cure the most fatal of illnesses. I want to heighten the awareness of our own power. We can change our world with just the touch of our hand. Reach out.

EA: What part of the rehearsal process or subject material did you find most inspiring?

KR: The "in between" moments of this rehearsal process are what most inspired me. The people involved with the project are not only talented but they are the definition of conscious citizens. Whether it be animal activism or teaching herbalism, these dancers spread their awareness from their fingertips and beyond. Most inspiring quality of these dancers, however, is their friendships that have created throughout this process.

EA: What did you learn from your experiences that you would like to share with others?

KR: People are what matter, whether they be family, friends or a furry critter. Support what and who you believe in. Stay in a present state of mind and the rest will follow.

For TICKETS to ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, click here: EnforcedArch.com/tickets/

ALLIANCE: Part 1 – Lauren Cox ALLIANCE: Part 2 – Charles Alexis Desgagnes ALLIANCE: Part 3 – Katherine Roarty ALLIANCE: Part 4 – Alexandra Shieron ALLIANCE: Part 5 – Klara Beyeler ALLIANCE: Part 6 – Clara Lofaro ALLIANCE: Part 7 - Julio Hugo Penagos

TONIGHT on The Kiner Hour Radio Show

TONIGHT, on The Kiner Hour Radio Show, Special Guest, Choreographer and Artistic Director of Exit 12 Dance Company, Roman Baca, and Enforced Arch Creative Directors, James Koroni, and Tracey Katof.

Live on Sundays: 7 pm – 8 pm EST on Mission 101 Broadcasting.

The live show begins at 7 pm EST on http://mission101broadcasting.com.

Tune in, and call in live at 917-267-8924!

This show covers hot topics in the dance world, dance events, the business side of the dance industry, how to be successful in the dance industry, health and wellness, social media for dance tips, and how to stay positive and motivated as a dance studio owner, dance teacher, and professional dancer, with special guest interviews from dance-industry leaders.

Roman Baca entered the U.S. Marine Corps in 2000 and was eventually deployed to Iraq. He returned to Connecticut and struggled to re-adjust himself to civilian life. He finally found purpose in his life…in dance. Baca started the Exit 12 Dance Company and is the artistic director there. He’s preparing to embark on a trip back to Iraq later this month where he will teach dance to local children there. Roman will share about his personal experience in Iraq, and about healing through dance.

Enforced Arch is a performance arts community of intelligent communicators who use their unique talents to bring life to environmental and social issues. In their spring performance at Manhattan Movement & Arts Center they will be presenting a collection of past and new works honoring the ‘ALLIANCE’ of art and activism. For Enforced Arch these performances mark the first presentation of works by creative directors, James Koroni and Tracey Katof.

ABOUT THE HOST: Ashani Mfuko is a professional dancer/dance instructor, the CEO/President of Kiner Enterprises Inc., a media personality, and the host of The Kiner Hour – Let’s Talk Dance with Ashani Mfuko Internet radio show. She has made appearances on The Tyra Banks Show, Good Morning America, The Bill Cunningham Show, Showtime at the Apollo, in films, music videos, and live performances at venues including; Lincoln Center, Madison Square Garden, The Ailey Citigroup Theater, and The Joyce — Soho. Ashani has taught at The Ailey Extension, Steps on Broadway, Ballet Hispanico, and tons of dance studios, public and private schools, and after-school programs, throughout the New York Metropolitan area.

ALLIANCE: Part 1 - Lauren Cox

Meet Lauren Cox, an intelligent, talented and compassionate soul. The loving energy she brings to every rehearsal and performance is electrifying!

On April 6th and 7th, Enforced Arch is presenting their latest work, 'ALLIANCE' Art & Activism, which features past and current pieces by creative directors James Koroni and Tracey Katof. Lauren Cox is a member of this project and we couldn't be more thrilled to have her join us on this unforgettable adventure! After rehearsal this past week we had an opportunity to ask her a few questions...

Enforced Arch: How do you as an individual live the 'ALLIANCE' of Art & Activism?

Lauren Cox: By simply living as a consciously healthy mind, body and soul.  I am a strong believer in leading by example and so by feeding myself knowledge, compassion and acceptance I can offer others the same thing.  There are so many issues in today's world, if we all took full advantage of our time, space and experience our similarities and needs would be more important than our differences.  I choose to act through art by telling a story and being honest and committed.

EA: What part of the rehearsal process or subject material did you find most inspiring?

LC: I am constantly impressed by Tracey and James' abilities to express the emotions of others.  The entire process was insightful and causes you to think beyond your own experience and thoughts.  It takes you to other space entirely, sending you on a journey that each time digs deeper.  

My favorite part of this process is being able to discuss these issues with my fellow dancers so we can collectively use that as a driving force.   

EA: What did you learn from your experiences that you would like to share with others?

LC: How deeply rooted animal cruelty is in our society, or even the mistreatment of our Earth.  When you think you've edited out your own negative influence on your surroundings there is something more to do.  It can be overwhelming but as long as you are making an effort to be aware of all sides you are of good ole' positive change.

For TICKETS to ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, click here: EnforcedArch.com/tickets/

ALLIANCE: Part 1 – Lauren Cox ALLIANCE: Part 2 – Charles Alexis Desgagnes ALLIANCE: Part 3 – Katherine Roarty ALLIANCE: Part 4 – Alexandra Shieron ALLIANCE: Part 5 – Klara Beyeler ALLIANCE: Part 6 – Clara Lofaro ALLIANCE: Part 7 - Julio Hugo Penagos