"Kill" the Paso Doble, Pass Killing the Bull

"In this dance Marko is gonna be a Matador. Who's gonna be going to fight the Bull and obviously kill the bull."-Dmitry Chaplin

"I am an animal activist so I am out to stop him!" -Janette Manrara

Last week on So You Think You Can Dance Janette Manrara, through Dmitry Chaplin's choreography, expressed compassion for animals and a disinterest in Bull Fighting. Why would one kill a bull? To proclaim masculinity, dominion over animals or for sport? Historically speaking, man would kill the beast to show superior intelligence or to establish power over their environment. Centuries later, in our modern culture, is it necessary to torture animals to establish and satisfy our egos? We don't need to abandon the rich history of our relationship to the environment. There is already an alternative form of art that is more of a spectacle and requires no killing. The Paso Doble is graceful and respectful to all parties involved. It represents our relationship with the "beast" yet requires no brutality and is absolutely breathtaking for the eyes to behold. Especially in this performance by choreographer Dmitry Chaplin with dancers Janette Manrara and Marko Germar! See for yourself:

A 2002 Gallup poll found that 68.8% of Spaniards express "no interest" in bullfighting while 20.6% expressed "some interest" and 10.4% "a lot of interest". (source) If an overwhelming amount of Spaniards have no interest in Bull Fighting then why does it still exist? For more info, click here!

Help Enforced Arch get an interview with Janette Manrara by LIKEing her Facebook page and telling her how much you want to see her join the compassionate 'Movers!'

"So You Think You Can Prance?"

You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen. Or do you?

'364 The Series' wittingly addresses ecological and social issues while poking fun at popular culture. I find charisma in its playful approach. With a sense of humor they speak to somewhat unreachable ears. People often want to mourn in what ignorance is dwelling. It is our responsibility to tackle current issues and make it known that we are enraged. Until we make society realize that artists are not only talents but also 'Movers', we will continue to live in delusion or live without a voice. In order to make this shift we must do our research and make our medium carry a message.

James Manzello, the writer of '364 The Series' carries the leading role of Donner, a reindeer with good intention, although seemingly disheartened by the worlds current state, finds himself excitable at moments of truth. By alluding to certain topics, Manzello offers a platform of discussion influenced not only with his vegan lifestyle but by having a sense of humor. His performance will inspire others to develop opinions and hopefully make for a more informed society. Fortunately, compassion is found in many forms, and James' seems to find his voice within a chuckle.

While we thought reindeer only had one simple job of pulling Santa's sleigh - the other 364 days of the year they have lives just like you and me.

All styling for '364 the Series' done by cruelty free vegan Marlena Pavich, also featuring vegan recording artist Mandy Duffy in episode 4!

'So You Think You Can Dance' occasionally brings our attention to issues of grave importance. Pieces such as Addiction by Mia Michaels and 'This Woman's work' about a woman with Breast Cancer, by Tyce Diorio are a few I will never forget. With Diorio's message brought to the forefront of the dance community I would like to continue addressing the issue.

Looking back to April of this year, I recall Kentucky Fried Chicken making efforts to raise money for the Susan G. Komen foundation.

50 cents per bucket of deep fried, "chickens, breasts."

How Ironic, this irresponsible fast food chain not only serves food that is breast cancer causing but also perpetuates diabetes, heart attacks and a slue of other health problems! Not to mention it's a bucket full of CHOPPED OFF CHICKENS BREASTS!

Fortunately the Breast Cancer foundation involved pulled out of this fundraiser. These fast food companies are a disgrace to life, compassion and welfare. Not only are they death to small business, they cause health issues in all those who consume their products and get their food through the inhumane practices of factory farming.

A moving quote from Nigel Lythgoe, a judge on 'So You Think You Can Dance,' "I don't know as a choreographer, where you get the strength from... to do a piece like this."  Issues such as these often haunt us, hearing about it day to day almost makes us want to avoid it. Unfortunately being ignorant is more popular these days than ever. We can only make change for those suffering if we as choreographers, "find the strength" to be moved by such issues.

Why do you dance?

Please leave a comment, let everyone in the Enforced Arch community know.