ALLIANCE - Wrinkled $ by Clara Lofaro

Clara Lofaro, Wrinkled $, Enforced Arch

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

ALLIANCE Art & Activism - Teaser

Please Don't Touch, ALLIANCE Art & ActivismIf you missed last night, don't fret. TONIGHT is our closing night and you can still get tickets HERE! Wrinkled $, ALLIANCE Art & ActivismStone Hearts, ALLIANCE Art & ActivismDouble Shadow, ALLIANCE Art & ActivismMidnight City, ALLIANCE Art & ActivismPlease, Don't Touch, ALLIANCE Art & ActivismStone Hearts, ALLIANCE Art & Activism

'ALLIANCE' Art & ActivismGET TICKETS NOW!

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

ALLIANCE: Part 5 - Klara Beyeler

Klara Beyeler, Enforced Arch 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.

ALLIANCE, Enforced ArchOn 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, Enforced Arch 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.

ALLIANCE, Enforced ArchOn 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, Enforced ArchKatherine 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! ALLIANCE, Enforced ArchOn 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

ALLIANCE: Part 2 - Charles A. Desgagnes

Charles Alexis Desgagnes, Enforced Arch Charles Alexis Desgagnes' artistry is beyond human. Every imaginable character or subject he is asked to experience through movement shines because his dauntless personality breaths life into every step.

ALLIANCE, Enforced ArchOn 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. Charles Alexis Desgagnes 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…

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

Charles Alexis Desgagnes: Simple, I commit myself each day to always be a more compassionate and a less judgmental human being than the day before. I love being out of my comfort zone, as I truly feel it is the easiest, fastest and most rewarding way to grow. Dance is my 6th sense, my way to evoke thoughts and feelings as well as a tool to project concepts to other living matter that can't be told in any other way. I look forward to share and connect with my brothers and sisters around the world, using dance, art and activism as vehicles to distribute positive energy.

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

CAD: Arriving later in the process, I truly enjoyed being part of the EA family right away, I felt quite at home in this eclectic group. I appreciate the intellectual and artistic process behind 'ALLIANCE' as movements are not only pretty movements but also representations of something else, something touchable, something palpable for the audience as well as the dancers. The social themes exploited, should it be animal welfare or the place of males in our society, are more than ever relevant and Enforced Arch does an amazing job at pointing them out.

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

CAD: If there is one thing I learned in the last year is that even with all those amazing social opportunities at the tip of our fingers nowadays, people tend to disconnect the connection, in the sense that we easily forget that everything on this Earth is connected, humans, animals and plants. We are all one. People notice opportunities offered to them to engage in more social matters but sometimes toss them away by fear, ignorance or judgment. We need to let go of these negative patterns and reeducate our mind, spirit and bodies. Moving forward together, in the same direction, is the only way to do it. As a relatively new vegan, I also would like to share the immense feeling that comes from contributing to something useful in this world. It is truly the easiest and quickest way for anybody to really have a tangible positive effect on this planet and the creatures inhabiting it.

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 1 - Lauren Cox

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

ALLIANCE, Enforced ArchOn 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

Dance Against Cancer

DAC-LOGO 2011 Dance Against Cancer (source) Manhattan Movement & Arts Center

The Manhattan Movement & Arts Center is proud to present Dance Against Cancer. The year's performance will take place on Monday, April 25, 2011. Cocktails at 6 PM, performance at 7 PM and reception at 8:30 PM.

** Logo and Invitation Design by Paula Salhany

The evening’s performance, produced by Erin Fogarty and Daniel Ulbricht, will include three World Premiere pieces and will be performed by Daniel Ulbricht, Robert Fairchild, Amar Ramasar, Tyler Angle, Craig Hall, Wendy Whelan, Maria Kowroski, and Sterling Hyltin, as well as Matthew Rushing, Attila Csiki, Keigwin + Company, Alex Wong, and Martin Harvey to choreography by George Balanchine, Christopher Wheeldon, Benjamin Millepied, Larry Keigwin, Lar Lubovitch, Earl Mosley, Alex Wong and Robert Fairchild, and Daniel Ulbricht.

TICKETS