Dancers - Alexandra Shieron, Andy Allen, Charles-Alexis Desgagnés, James Koroni, Julio Hugo Penagos, Katherine Roarty, Keshia Robinson, Klara Beyeler, Lauren Cox, Rebecca Lloyd-Jones
Contributing Recording Artist - Amanda Lee, Clara Lofaro
Creative Directors & Choreographers - James Koroni, Tracey Katof
Costume Designer - Lui Konno *Please, Don't Touch - Marlena Pavich
Lighting Designer - Amanda Clegg Lyon
Camera Operators - Joshua Katcher, Melissa Fornabaio
In the spirit of The Beatles, ‘Imagine’ where no religion or war inhibits our ability to find peace, ‘Wrinkled $’ showcases the innocence of childhood as a utopia where no $, politics, or egos reside. Innocence exists here without knowledge or life experience and has no grounds for opinion. A child simply sees beauty in everything. It seems that we cherish these moments in our lives, ones where we are free from daily travails. Then when does the agony begin? Part of growing into our adolescence and even into young adulthood means facing frightening truths. This may be where ignorance is born. Born as a fear, creeping up when that innocence is challenged with information that opposes our current understanding of the world, and if accepted, would require change, which is often difficult. It’s clear why people maintain an iron grip on their traditions and opinions – we can’t expect everyone to be be open to having their beliefs challenged, regardless of the validity of those challenges.
On the contrary I can see benefits in our innocence and value it. A child is brought into life with an unconditional ability to love. Something to admire, they remind us of what is truly important. How might I wonder do we sustain this ability to give unconditional love. When a child asks a question about the world, we may find it in their best interest to be dishonest with them, to protect them. However, if we provide them with a platform of knowledge that helps them understand the world, they will be prepared for tough transitions. Life has a lot of evolutions to undertake and this is yet another one that we need to identify, where Innocence meets Ignorance. Our fear of evolution is simply something to acknowledge and seek understanding in its wake.
Dancers Alexandra Shieron Charles-Alexis Desgagnés James Koroni Julio Hugo Penagos Katherine Roarty Keshia Robinson Klara Beyeler Lauren Cox Rebecca Lloyd-Jones
Creative Directors - James Koroni & Tracey Katof Costume Designer - Lui Konno Lighting Designer - Amanda Clegg Lyon Camera Operators - Joshua Katcher & Melissa Fornabaio Choreographer - James Koroni Contributing Choreographer - Tracey Katof
ALLIANCE – Wrinkled $ by Clara Lofaro ALLIANCE – Double Shadow ALLIANCE - Funny Little Man
If you missed last night, don't fret. TONIGHT is our closing night and you can still get tickets HERE!
http://www.EnforcedArch.com/tickets/
Creative Directors, James Koroni & Tracey Katof
Vocal artist, Clara Lofaro
Photography by Joshua Katcher
Lighting by Amanda Clegg Lyon
Costume Design by Lui Konno
Julio Hugo Penagos is a cornerstone. What sets him apart is his dedication. He is always prepared and confident, making seemingly large obstacles within the process manageable when he's around.
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. Julio Hugo Penagos is a member of this project and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have him join us on this adventure! After rehearsal this past week we had an opportunity to ask him a few questions…
How do you as an individual live the ‘ALLIANCE’ of Art & Activism?
By creating something new every day, and encouraging others to do so as well. I live by the philosophy of creating just for fun. Exercising your creativity every day not only keeps you in great spirits but also keeps your brain active. I am also a strong believer of dreaming big. Having this profession has allowed me to teach and encourage children to create, and encourage them to fight for their passion.
What part of the rehearsal process or subject material did you find most inspiring?
The human interaction. It is truly inspiring to work with genuinely sweet and talented individuals with open minds and a great attitude. They believe in something, and they use their art to create a positive change in the world.
I am not a morning person, LOL, but working with these people early in the morning never felt like work. Every day it was walking into a bubble of creativity, time always flew by.
I also enjoyed all the different kinds of dancers I got to work with. The quality of movement in all of them is so different and interesting, that for me, observation and learning was also one of my favorite parts of the process.
What did you learn from your experiences that you would like to share with others?
Positivism. Always see the glass half full. The performing arts business is a tough one. I know that sometimes it gets hard, but you have to believe in yourself. Practice your craft every day and be better, every day.
I have had a long and bumpy road here from Guatemala City, but it is all about keeping it positive and knowing that if you want something bad enough, you will get it. Passion and positivism will get you far.
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
Clara Lofaro is an astounding performing artist. Her warmth and friendship is prevalent in all that she does. She effortlessly captivates and inspires everyone who graces her presence.
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. Clara Lofaro 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?
My quest has always been to liberate people and bring one closer to oneself through music. I do this by exposing myself in my songs and voice as honestly as possible; full of flaw and emotion. I also contribute to various organizations that are making a difference by helping people live more whole lives in one capacity or another.
What part of the rehearsal process or subject material did you find most inspiring?
Watching these talented artists come together to create the story behind my song, "Wrinkled $." It was breathtaking. I feel so honored to be involved in this performance and cause.
What did you learn from your experiences that you would like to share with others?
I learned that we all hold the ability to make a difference in our body and community. We are powerful instruments, especially when we join forces.
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
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
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
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