Fusion Art - Fusion World

koroni-3 Enforced Arch Mover, Crystal Silmi is an Arab American Belly Dance Fusion artist native to San Francisco, California. She spent years studying and training belly dance with the masters of the industry where she was a member of the prestigious Suhaila Dance Company and Bal Anat. She also directed her own fusion dance company RaksArabi before making the move across the Atlantic to live in Spain.

With dedication and grace, Crystal shows us that a determined dancer can not only succeed in a new and foreign environment, but experience exponential growth as an artist. In less than 3 years, Crystal has gone from being an unknown artist in Europe to an internationally recognized teacher and artist.

Determined to spread the fusion fire from California, Crystal has been igniting passion in the European belly dance community teaching belly dance with modern and world fusion dance techniques. She continues to expand and grow in her repertoire as well studying Flamenco, Jazz and Hip Hop in Spain.

As an active vegan, Crystal was also invited by PETA in 2012 to join as an activist for a cruelty free fashion show in Seoul, Korea to show the world that the cruelty free lifestyle is maintained by healthy, active and creative people.

For information about Crystal and her upcoming workshops, events or whereabouts visit www.CrystalSilmi.com.

ALLIANCE - International Tour

Enforced Arch Presents an International Tour London, Paris, Berlin October, 2013

VegFest - London, England Paris Vegan Day Festival - Paris, France Site-Specific Installation - Paris, France Site-Specific Installation - Berlin, Germany

Enforced Arch Dance

ALLIANCE Art & Activism By Creative Directors, James Koroni & Tracey Katof

Enforced Arch Dance Company is thrilled to present ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, a presentation that harnesses the relationship between performance art and the pursuit of social justice. In our fall 2013 tour we will be presenting a collection of past and new works honoring the 'ALLIANCE' of art and activism. The performance features video installation by exceptional video artists including, Joshua Katcher and Yessi Yes-Yes Ruiz.

In the past two years Enforced Arch has been invited to share their work in cities such as, Washington D.C., New York City and Paris, and has addressed issues such as human rights, environmental awareness, animal rights and ethics & fashion. Each piece celebrates our ability to speak up for those who are less fortunate.

By making a donation to our fundraiser you also contribute to our collective voice and make it heard that much louder. Thank you for making our important work possible. Here's how we will be using the money raised by this campaign:

Costumes = $500

Rehearsal space abroad = $270

Rehearsal space in NYC = $270

Travel (London, Paris, Berlin) = $2,414

Per Diem = $560

Housing = $700

TOTAL COSTS = $4,714

ADDITIONAL funds raised will go toward our annual company performance of ALLIANCE: Art & Activism in New York City tentatively scheduled for Spring of 2014.

MAKE A DONATION BY CLICKING HERE!

Please join us this Fall for an informal studio showing before we head abroad:

New York City Studio Showing (LOCATION TBA) Thursday, September 19th

For more information regarding this performance please contact us at EnforcedArch@gmail.com.

THANK YOU!

Instrumental music in video by Clara Lofaro www.ClaraLofaro.com.

Young Choreographer's Festival

Emily Bufferd After hearing so many spectacular reviews about the Young Choreographer's Festival (YCF), I had to get a hold of the brilliant mind behind the scenes and ask her a few questions. Emily Bufferd, founder of the YCF and creative director of BEings dance, is also a young choreographer in New York City and believe it or not, has had her own share of challenges along the way. Being a young choreographer in the dance world can be very overwhelming. Fortunately, the YCF provides much needed clarity for young choreographers. Let's see what Emily Bufferd has to say on the subject:

James Koroni: In your own words what types of struggles have you come across as a young choreographer?

Emily Bufferd: I think as a young choreographer, the hardest part is getting people to take you seriously, and feeling like you have to prove your ability.  Applying to shows in the hopes of being presented when you have no track record is asking someone to take a chance on you, and since dance is such a fragile art-form to begin with, it sometimes is really hard to find that person who is open to being the first one to present you.  You have to continuously prove that you are capable of handling the job.

Koroni: Are these the reasons why you created the Young Choreographer's Festival(YFC)?

Bufferd: It is definitely a big part of it; I was fortunate enough in the early stages of my starting to choreograph that one of my mentors/friends suggested I attend a selection panel he was sitting on with him as a learning experience.  It really showed me how hard it is to get your work presented, especially as a young artist who doesn't have tangible proof of why you should present them.  It can be hard when watching so much dance to be able to see past the fact that it is rehearsal footage, or not costumed/lit/finished... any number of reasons.  I wanted there to be something that looked past all of those factors, and only looked at the caliber of the work.

Neil_Dradle

Koroni: Did you anticipate that the YCF would be such a big success?

Bufferd: 100% truth, I had no idea.  Is it a big success?  I hope someday it is; we're getting there I think (I hope).  I want all of our young choreographers to book jobs and work; I would love to be able to provide them with more opportunity and education.

Koroni: Aside from supporting and celebrating young choreographers, does your selection process consider other criteria such as innovation?

Bufferd: The selection process takes many things into consideration... quality of the choreography (in all genres) is top priority though.

Koroni: From receiving your newsletters, it seems that you are offering programs or informative lectures for selected choreographers. Would you please tell me a little about this?

Bufferd: I think education can make the difference between being a successful artist and a not so successful one, so we have introduced programming for that purpose.  The selected choreographers this year got a mentor (this was the first year of this!), and will have a talk back panel with industry folks.  Sometimes the best way to learn is simply just to listen to someone who has been where you hope to go and let what they tell you sink in so I love to be able to have those with more developed careers sit down with our young artists to give them guidance, and answer some of their questions.

Sidra

Koroni: I’ve also seen that you have invited established choreographers to present their work at the festival. I imagine that the purpose of their presence is to elevate the expectations of selected young choreographers. Have the young choreographers found it challenging to put work up on the stage before or after these professional choreographers?

Bufferd: My main purpose of having guest choreographers is, quite honestly, to inspire the young artists... a 'this is what I can become' kind of situation.  In my personal experiences, I have never felt more excited (or nauseous) as I did when I saw my name on a roster with the likes of Sidra Bell, Rhapsody, and Jason Parsons for the first time - it was an indescribable feeling of gratitude and accomplishment.  With that said, I have never felt in the years of having YCF that the young choreographers' works didn't stand up just as well as the guest artist's pieces... I guess that's why they were selected.

Koroni: Do you have plans to expand upon your vision for the YCF, for example, choreographer summer intensives or business workshops?

Bufferd: YCF will definitely continue to grow, and absolutely is aiming to build our educational aspects - next year is our 5 year celebration and we have some exciting things in the works for it.

Koroni: With a new group of choreographers each year there must be a whole different feel from festival to festival. What should we come to expect this year?

Bufferd: Each year is exciting because a show definitely does take on a vibe due to who is being presented.  This year's show has a really nice mix of genres being represented, and with 22 wonderful pieces being shown, it's going to be a full dance party!

Looks like the the Young Choreographer's Festival is going to be an evening of excitement not to miss. It's this Saturday, June 15th at 8pm and you can get your TICKETS by visiting: Symphonyspace.org

YCF_2013

 

M.O.V.E. For Liberia

Photo Credit: Jarrid Jones Dirraj Inc.

Today's youth are failing to fulfill their full potential as effective citizens of their communities on both a national and a global scale. In efforts to fulfill their potential as young effective citizens, members of Javanna Productions M.O.V.E. (Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment) will introduce their form of community service in honor of this year's M.O.V.E. For Liberia effort. M.O.V.E. For Liberia is an effort that is raising funds to empower a village in Liberia through the implementation of solar power tools. The Sun Giant Foundation is the ultimate recipient of funds raised from the M.O.V.E. For Liberia effort. Sun Giant is responsible for creating, installing and managing solar power energy tools and resources in Nehemiah, Liberia. sungiantenergy.org.

Spring Choreography Collaboration Project entitled REM. REM is a full length contemporary piece that questions the notions and players in civil war conflict and international aid.

DATE: March 30th, 2013 - 8PM LOCATION: Paul Taylor Dance Theater 551 Grand St: Take the F to Essex St.

REM

CHOREOGRAPHERS: Emily Greenwell Lexi Dysart Sam Glennerster

DIRECTORS: Nicole Javanna Johnson Emily Bufferd Clare Maceda

SUBJECT, 2012

SUBJECT, 2012 from James Koroni on Vimeo.

The questions that SUBJECT asks are, "Who is a subject? To what do we subject others? Is this a subject worth considering?" In philosophy, a subject is a being that has subjective experiences, a subjective consciousness or a relationship with another entity.

In SUBJECT we reveal the intimacy of human and non-human relationships, validating them as subjects, which departs from their popular assignment as objects to be subjected to human will, whim and desire.

James Koroni, Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, 2012

In SUBJECT, I perform for, with and around these rescued farm animals at the Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, and they acknowledge my presence. They are viewers. As a performer I evoke emotional responses, some jovial and affectionate and others curious and reserved. They are complex sentient being and all respond as individuals.

To meet the animals visit, http://woodstocksanctuary.org/.

Ashani Mfuko Is Unstoppable

Ashani Mfuko, Inside NYC Dance Her heart is full for the dance community which is why she is launching a new television series entitled "Inside NYC Dance."

Since the launch of her radio show “Let’s Talk Dance” in 2010, Mfuko has gained a following of more than 20,000 listeners and launched more than 60 episodes and YouTube features. Active in the online community, Mfuko’s weekly #LetsTalkDance tweetchats are often among the top trending topics on Twitter, weighing in with questions and commentary around current trends and artist needs. Listeners and followers tune in from around the world. Mfuko provides tips and tricks as well as educates the dance community in regards to marketing, branding, utilizing social media and developing media to increase exposure and online presence. The addition of “Inside NYC Dance” will further increase community engagement to dance news and reach a new audience through MNN’s subscriber base of 620,000 in the Manhattan area.

“This past year we’ve really seen the popularity of dance TV shows take off, but there’s no real representation of what’s happening in the center of the dance world, in New York City,” says Ashani Mfuko. “This TV series is a much-needed boost to the Dance Community. Not only does it provide larger community exposure to dance visionaries but will also highlight upcoming dance events to drive community interaction.”

The weekly show premiered last Friday night at 10:30 p.m. on the Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN) Culture Channel (Time Warner Cable 67 | RCN 85 | FiOS 36) and continues each Friday for twelve episodes.

Inside NYC Dance

This coming Friday we can expect features on The Young Choreographer's Festival, Exec. Director of The Ladies of Hip-Hop Festival, Michele Byrd McPhee, and Media Relations Specialist, Amber Henrie.

Where can I watch "Inside NYC Dance?"

Residents within the five boroughs of New York City can watch the show through their local cable network (Time Warner Cable 67 | RCN 85 | FiOS 36). Viewers outside of NYC can watch the show’s live stream at http://mnn.org. The show will air every Friday night at 10:30pm. For additional information and details on each upcoming episode follow the show on Facebook.com/InsideNYCDance and Twitter.com/InsideNYCDance, or visit http://insidenycdance.com.

Cynthia King Presents FRAMED

Cynthia King Dance Studio, Enforced Arch Brooklyn, NY - This October marks 50 years of dance for acclaimed CKDS Artistic Director and choreographer, Cynthia King. To celebrate the occasion, King offers audiences FRAMED, a unique, fast-paced assemblage of pieces incorporating a diverse collection of performers -- from aspiring young dancers to professionals. FRAMED will include original dance works ranging from the thought-provoking to the joyous, from pure camp to pure catharsis.

FRAMED October 6, 2012 7pm Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts One University Plaza Brooklyn, NY 11201 Box Office: (718) 488-1624 Tickets can be purchased at www.kumbletheater.tix.com

FRAMED will continue the CKDS growing tradition of staging innovative productions performed for and by adults and children at Kumble Theatre for the Performing Arts in Brooklyn, NY. Says King, "I am excited to present this dynamic collection of works that truly represent many facets of my career in dance, and address the issues that I am passionate about."

Cynthia King, Enforced ArchCynthia King has danced professionally in New York and with touring companies. A Brooklyn devotee and fixture, she has taught at local schools and frequently hosts and participates in community and political events. She is a passionate animal advocate, producing Cynthia King Vegan Ballet Slippers-the only prêt-a-porter vegan ballet shoes available on the market, and has served on the boards of various animal welfare organizations. Her studio has trained dancers in Brooklyn for over ten years.

Select pieces will address serious political and ethical issues, ranging from the objectification of girls and women by society to animal rights, interspersed with light-hearted jaunts, for a compelling evening spanning a spectrum of emotions. King will dance with CKDS faculty, current students, and alumni. Special guests from the New York City arts community have shared their talents by composing original music, and designing sets and costumes. Dynamic Rockers will perform and drag queen activist Honey LaBronx will be our vivacious Master of Ceremonies.

Cynthia King Dance Studio, Enforced ArchAbout Cynthia King Dance Studio Since its beginnings, CKDS has brought excellence in dance to the Brooklyn community, inspiring the best in students of all ages. For more than a decade, CKDS has continued to prioritize technical training, innovative performance, and community involvement to create a unique and personally rewarding experience for all of its dancers and their families. Learn more at our website: www.cynthiakingdance.com.

Behind The Velvet Curtain

Behind The Velvet Curtian, Bettina May, Beauty BarCome out to the debut of Bettina May's new monthly show in Manhattan! Each month she'll be putting the best performers in burlesque, boylesque and variety onstage. Her inaugural show is the NY Burlesque Fest Hangover show, the perfect wind down from an amazing 4 days of international burlesque, featuring London's Kitty Bang Bang, BHOF King of Burlesque 2012 Russell Bruner from Portland, Maine Attraction, Miss Ekaterina, herself and hosted by the extraordinary Bastard Keith!

Visit: http://bettina.ca/BehindTheVelvetCurtain/for more details and for reservations.

Ticket Information:
General Admisson - $10 at the door, 1/2 off with a NYBF weekend pass (first show only!)
Reserved Seating - $20 per person, subject to availability.
Group Reservations - Special packages available for Bachelorette Parties, Birthdays etc.

Footloose In New York City

Did you know it’s illegal to dance in most bars, restaurants and even well established clubs in New York City? Or that, unless it’s a performance, dancing is not recognized as a form of expression protected under the First Amendment?

In 1926, while liquor was bootlegged and Jazz was shaking things up in Harlem, New York City instituted the Cabaret Law that required establishments serving food or drink to obtain a separate license before permitting any dancing or live music on their premises. This law successfully sought to police and restrict the interracial mixing happening in dance clubs uptown. Almost 100 years later, though times and racial attitudes have changed, the Cabaret Law is not only still in effect and enforced, but contemporary zoning regulations effectively make dancing with your friends absolutely illegal in large parts of the city!

New York’s restrictive dancing regulations affect not only individual dancers and communities, but businesses too, who suffer under the weight of intransigent bureaucracy, legal costs, irregular enforcement and disproportionate fines. Consequently, the number of legal venues has also been declining at an alarming rate. In the 1960s, in the Five Boroughs of New York City there were over 12,000 Cabaret Licenses. By 2008 there were only 179 and as of September 4th 2012 – just 135. (See details here)

After an attempt to repeal the Cabaret Laws on First Amendment grounds failed in 2006, the only avenue toward meaningful change now is through legislative action and we need your support! Please help us repeal the 1926 Cabaret Law and remove the following 7 words from the Zoning Code: "or establishments of any capacity with dancing." These reforms will have no effect on the applicability or enforcement of any of the numerous noise, fire, safety, alcohol and drug ordinances that keep our persons and venues safe and our neighborhoods livable. Help us free dancing by signing this petition and voting for candidates who support and advocate for it!

Social dancing should be freely available to anyone and everyone in any venue in the City of New York where it is safe to do so. No neighborhood should be zoned "No Dancing Allowed." Local communities and small businesses should be allowed to dance and flourish. (SOURCE)

PLEASE visit Change.org and sign/share the petition to repeal this archaic law HERE!

Article written by and brought to you by Ina Sotirova.

First Steps To Weight Loss

PART 1: Stop Drinking Calories!

THE BIG PICTURE When we say “body weight” and “weight loss”, we are usually talking about fat mass and decreasing it. Muscle and other tissues make up a lot of our weight also, but few people are trying to “lose muscle mass”! Bodyfat is generally stored when we eat more food than we need, storing extra calories in our fat tissue for the next famine. The problem, of course, is that in modern, Westernized countries, there is no famine. Instead we have near-constant opportunities to feast. In this article series I’ll be laying out some no-nonsense approaches to reducing calories and increasing nutrients in the food we eat. This strategy, along with appropriate exercise habits and other healthy habits, is the key to maintaining a healthy amount of fat in our bodies.

LIQUID CALORIES Stop drinking calories! Liquid calories tend to increase your total calories (consumed energy) per day, but, because they are mostly nutrient-poor, they decrease your daily nutrient intake. This means a tendency toward fat-gain and decreased health.Sugary Beverages

Examples of Liquid Calories: -Juice, even fresh -Milk, dairy or nondairy -Alcohol -Energy Drinks and soda pop, even sugar-free

Replace with: -Tea, especially green/white/black -Carbonated Water -Vegetable Juice, especially that made from green vegetables (carrot juice is still very high in sugar and lower in nutrients than green vegetable juice) -Whole Food Smoothies, especially those containing both fruits and vegetables

HERE'S WHY Juice, usually made from fruit or carrots, is essentially sugar water with a small amount of some vitamins. So many nutrients, including fiber, are lost when juicing fruits, that the end product can hardly be considered healthy, even when fresh-squeezed. Eat fruit instead!

Milk is also a low-nutrient food. While most milks (nondairy included) are high in calcium and Vitamin D, these are only two nutrients, and there are thousands of nutrients that we should be getting in our food. Also, milks are somewhat high in sugar, and non-skim dairy milk (along with coconut milk) is high in saturated fat and further increases your calories per day without significantly increasing your nutrients per day.

Alcohol is a low-nutrient food. Some benefits are conferred from moderate alcohol consumption (1-2 drinks per day), but these benefits might be outweighed by simply eating another small salad per day instead of drinking alcohol. If you are physically quite active, 1 alcoholic drink per day is probably fine.

Energy Drinks are not healthy. They are generally made out of carbonated water and sugar with a handful of vitamins and stimulants thrown in. Caffeinating oneself frequently as a lifestyle choice is a questionable practice on its own. But regularly consuming energy drinks is like regularly drinking soda pop, also called liquid candy.

What about sodas and energy drinks that are sugar-free? Artificial sweeteners are linked to a slight increase in body weight. Why? The prevailing theory is that consuming fake sugar confuses your body’s ability to sense when real sugar is being eaten. That means that when you do eat real sugar, like from some orange slices, your body is less-well equipped to deal with these sugars since it believes they are fake sugars. Personally, I consume drinks with real sugar those few times per year when I splurge on super sweet beverages.

HEALTHY REPLACEMENT DRINKS Tea, from the tea tree (different than the “tea tree” plant from which “tea tree oil” is obtained), is green, white, or black, depending on how much the leaves are processed after harvest. All three are full of nutrients, free of calories, and will benefit your health. Black has the most caffeine, green the least.

Water and carbonated water is healthy stuff. Drink in abundance! Actually, a sign that you are well-hydrated (but not over-hydrated) is having urine that is slightly yellow, but mostly clear.

Vegetable JuiceVegetable Juice, especially that made from green vegetables, is very good for your health. Low in sugar but very high in nutrients, green vegetable juice is a great addition for anyone. Watch out for vegetable juice that is based on celery or cucumber, since this is lower in nutrients than juice made primarily from vegetables like romaine, kale, broccoli, and spinach.

Whole Food Smoothies contain all the stuff that the whole food has, it’s just mixed and “pre-chewed” for your enjoyment. As long as you drink them somewhat close to when they are made (try 10-20 minutes), drinking whole food smoothies can be a super healthy way to go. Try mixing fruits and green leaves. You’d be surprised how many leaves (like spinach or romaine) you can add before you taste them. It’s like a fruit salad meets a green salad, and super convenient. You can also add other flavors by throwing in some cinnamon, unprocessed cocoa powder, ginger, etc.

What About Athletes? Athletes have higher--sometimes much higher--calorie needs, and liquid calories can be a good way to get those additional calories. It’s still smart to get calories from nutrient-dense foods though, since the body needs more nutrients to repair from increased physical activity. I recommend that athletes consume 1 or 2 calorie-dense smoothies per day that include lots of fruits, green leaves, and nut butter, like the one below:

Recovery Smoothie: 2 bananas, 3 cups mixed greens, 1 cup blueberries, lots of cinnamon, whole food hemp protein powder, 3 TBSP peanut butter, water. Blend until smooth. Makes about 4 cups.

Part 2: Eat Salad Every Day

DISCLAIMER: The author is neither a nutritionist nor registered dietician. Information contained herein was gathered from many sources and can be found in the literature of such organizations as the World Health Organization, the American Dietetics Association, the American Council on Exercise, National Institutes of Health, and others. Consult with a physician before making changes to your diet or exercise programs.

For more about the Author, Sebastian Grubb visit: SebastianGrubb.com

The Man Who Wasn't There OPENING

The Man Who Wasn't There, FT Collab Our ensembles' interests and talents are as diverse as the group itself. We come from San Francisco, Los Angeles, Providence, Jamaica, Singapore, Puerto Rico, and beyond. Between us we have worked on performance projects across the globe. We are interested in what we have in common as human beings. We believe that performance is a bridge, that it is deeply imbedded in our nature, and provides a means toward social change and greater understanding of our shared condition.

Help us get to Canada and back us on Kickstarter: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/60934704/the-man-who-wasnt-there

The Man Who Wasn't There, FT Collab

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Three performances will be held in Shapiro Theater: August 3 @ 8:00pm August 4 @ 7:00pm and 10:00pm

The production will then travel to Canada and participate in the Edmonton International Fringe Festival. August 12-26

The Man Who Wasn't There, FT Collab

FT Collab Members - Bryan Quick, A Writer Mei Ann Teo, A Director Adam "Robot" Nash, A Composer/Musician Adrian Silver, A Choreographer/Dramaturg Mariana Ortiz, A Producer Lauren Cox, A Dancer Mary Ellen Beaudreau, A Dancer James Koroni, A Dancer Jessica Myers, A Dancer Kevon Simpson, A Dancer

We ask you to join us on this journey, toward asking the right questions, engaging in a serious investigation, and gaining a deeper understanding of what it means to be human. Click to enlarge images:

Catching Up With Sebastian Grubb

Sebastian Grubb Enforced Arch 'Mover' and contributor, Sebastian Grubb takes life one step at a time but carries the world in his arms. Tackling fitness, nutrition and dance in one lifetime may seem overwhelming but for him, it's done with grace. He is thrilled to share his expertise with the world and has recently launched a website where you can get the best of all three worlds in one place. I had the opportunity to briefly interview him and here's what he had to say:

You have a very diverse background of expertise. Why did you choose to bring them together into one website? My life is organized around bridging my different interests. Movement, food, creativity: balancing these make up what I consider the foundation of a good life. In the end, my primary pursuits are health and happiness, and professionally that means working as an artist and trainer. I also don't see such a big divide between the categories; you need to eat well to move well (over the long-term), and dance certainly fits into the pursuit of fitness also.

What do you expect someone to get when they stumble upon SebastianGrubb.com (supposing they came for nutrition and they peruse the dance section)? I hope they might see the connection, see how different pursuits aid each other. Dance is an ancient, ancient human tradition; every culture has their own dance. That's strong evidence for the importance of everyone dancing. So someone can come to my site and think, "Hmmm, maybe I'll go out dancing this week or take a dance class." On another track, I notice that people who do pursue dance and/or fitness do not necessarily also pursue healthy eating, or have misinformation about what is actually healthy. That's why I have written and posted nutrition articles on the site.

Sebastian Grubb

Please tell me about Sebastian Grubb's philosophy of movement and lifestyle: My philosophy around healthy living is: to make time to move creatively and vigorously most days of the week, to eat almost exclusively whole plant foods, to sleep well and foster healthy social relationships. In more specific terms, exercise for at least 1 hour on 6-7 days per week; eat as many vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains as possible; sleep 7-10 hours a night, depending on need; practice sensitive, mature communication and healing psychological wounds.

What is a typical day in the life of Sebastian Grubb, what do you eat, what companies do you spend your time with? I have an unfortunately chaotic schedule, owing to shifting dance rehearsals, performances, and touring. That said, I generally dance 20-30 hours per week and train fitness clients 12-15 hours per week, in small groups and 1-on-1. I often train clients in the morning and evening, with a rehearsal in between. I work like this 6 days a week. And I perform about 20 weekends per year, with about 12 of those being outside California.

As you might have guessed, I eat a lot. Here's my basic structure: Breakfast based on fruit, lunch based on salad, dinner based on steamed vegetables. Add to that a lot of whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. And add a snack mid-afternoon, and an additional meal, usually a second dinner. This past year I have been learning a lot about training less to avoid injury and burnout, and about eating denser calorie sources, like nuts and seeds. It's funny that part of my challenge has been moving less and eating more, but that's just how it is.

I also do fitness-specific training for myself, like circuit strength-training, running, etc. This totally depends on the intensity of my rehearsals, if I am doing a lot of lifting of other dancers, learning a new style, or getting ready for a performance weekend. In general I fit in 2 strength training sessions per week, usually right before a rest (or low-intensity) day. Again, it's about the whole picture and a long-term perspective of sustainability.

Here's who I'm currently working with in the dance world: AXIS Dance Company hired me in 2009 and it has been a phenomenal learning and growth opportunity for me. We work 12-20 hours per week, on average, and I do almost all my touring with AXIS. I have been performing with Scott Wells & Dancers since 2008, which is a project-based gig. And then I freelance and make my own work. Currently I'm rehearsing with Christine Bonansea on a dancetheatre piece inspired by Sartre's play, "No EXIT". I'm also choreographing "WORKOUT", a dancetheatre piece based on fitness training and fitness-specific subcultures. It's very entertaining, vigorous, and interesting for me. WORKOUT will premiere this December in San Francisco.

Sebastian Grubb

What legends in the dance community, or perhaps not in the dance community, inspire you? I have always been inspired by older dancers. This started when I was in college and looked to young professionals in their twenties. Now I am inspired by dancers in their thirties and beyond. I love watching someone dance who is in their fifties or sixties and has this whole body of experience and movement history. It really shows. I'm looking to cultivate that in myself, as an aesthetic choice and even as a subtle spiritual practice. In the Bay Area I've been most inspired by Joe Goode and Scott Wells, both of whom are remarkable dancers, but who've also attracted communities of dancers and audiences around their work, which continues to evolve.

Growing up I performed in musicals and also saw a lot of them performed, some live and some on video. I remember being particularly inspired by Gene Kelly. I also watched most of Charlie Chaplin's films and draw from them to this day.

I should add that I am inspired by watching athletes; I love the pure effort, and the grace that comes from finding efficient ways to move. In college I was really inspired by bodybuilders and strongmen, both of whom have taken this process of molding and changing their bodies to an extreme. It takes such diligence and belief in their own ability to shape their world. I really admire that, though I would say my own fitness practice is much more balanced today than it was when I first pursued fitness via bodybuilding.

What's coming up for you and how do we follow your inspirational work? Thanks for asking! I have a lot of upcoming projects. Earlier I mentioned "WORKOUT", which premieres in December. I am also about to begin making a commissioned work for AXIS Dance Company. And AXIS has two big projects this Fall, making long works with outside choreographers Amy Seiwert and Victoria Marks. We will basically have two rehearsal intensives back-to-back over three months. Those will all be more like 30-hour dance weeks. You can catch all this in video and social media on-line via facebook, twitter and youtube. Here are some specific websites to check:

http://www.axisdance.org http://www.sebastiangrubb.com/gallery http://www.youtube.com/sebastiangrubb http://www.youtube.com/user/axisdancecomp

Images of Sebastian Grubb from The Narrowing, for AXIS Dance Company. Photography by David Papas

Thank you Sebastian Grubb for taking time to share this information with the Enforced Arch community. We are looking forward to all your upcoming creative projects and celebrate your achievements thus far!

Be sure to check out his new website HERE!

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 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

Enforced Arch 'Alliance' IndieGoGo

In our spring performance with MixTape Dance Company at Manhattan Movement & Arts Center, Enforced Arch will be presenting a collection of past and new works sewn together honoring the 'Alliance' of art and activism.

These performances on April 6th and 7th mark the first presentation of works by the Enforced Arch creative directors, James Koroni and Tracey Katof. After only a year in existence Enforced Arch has traveled to D.C. New York City and Paris to perform. Enforced Arch has "spoken" for issues such as; Childhood Sexual Abuse, Animal Rights, Environmental Awareness, the It Get's Better Project and Domestic Violence.

Tracey Katof, James Koroni, Enforced Arch

We will continue to expand upon our already existing platform that keenly fuses Art & Activism but we need your help! In order to produce this show financially, we need all the support we can get. Everything from renting the performance venue, rehearsal space, costumes, etc. all cost a great deal but in the long run will help us spread awareness. Any amount, great or small is put to good use and is very much appreciated!

To make a donation click here: IndieGoGo.com/Enforced-Arch-Alliance

Thank you for your support!

Best,

James Koroni Creative Director & Choreographer JamesKoroni@gmail.com

Tracey Katof PR Director & Choreographer TraceyKatof@gmail.com

"Inspiring performers everywhere!" -The Discerning Brute

"James Koroni uses his love of dance as a form of activism through his creation and curation of Enforced Arch, a group of performers who are using the power of their movements to create dialogue about big issues like animal welfare and social justice." -VegNews Magazine

Indonesian Interlude

Venyci Yefriadi Venyci Yefriadi

Venyci Yefriadi uses the power of dance to create a safe community at IDAI, Interlude Dance Academy Indonesia. Indonesia is ranked as 4th most populated in the world, the biggest Muslim population, the largest archipelago country, with a mix of democratic & sultanate governments, a home to over 30 different cultures & traditions - this is not an easy project for her. Her powerful warmth and interest inspires a generation faced with unpredictable cultural change and forced adaptation. She offers her students obtainable goals within dance and an eclectic family that is open to their differences.

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Venyci Yefriadi

Her mother comes from a traditional Javanese family. Her mothers friends would often come into her home and share dance, music, art & philosophy while playing the gamelan (a traditional Javanese instrument). While her father is Chinese and has a classic respect for Chinese New Year and religious ritual. Her parents are a perfect example of Indonesia's complex cultural diversity. They never quite felt at home so they relocated throughout Indonesia, from Malang to Jakarta and later Singapore before Venyci chose Allentown, PA for college. She resides now, by her words, in 'sunny sometimes foggy' San Francisco!

Interlude Dance Academy Indonesia

Adapting to a new world and a new culture was very hard for me, every time you must face feeling lonely again, search for new friends and a community to call your own. The fear of moving to a new world effected me in my personal relationships, both with partners & friends. With every new "home," in the back of my mind, I knew that I would  be leaving soon. I kept all my relationships on the surface to avoid inevitable pain. Now as an adult I can see that change was my friend, changing is like flipping my hand & waking up in the morning. I have a special button or self alarm to activate my courage. I flow into every space and fit into any container. -Venyci Yefriadi

Interlude Dance Academy IndonesiaHer dancers experience confusion within their culture, the country is split into extreme conservative tradition and open minded liberal thought - there really is nothing in between. They don't understand why the two extremes exist and this often leads to rebellion and getting involved in self destructive activities. After being relocated to another country there is even less to identify with or hold onto. After listening to their struggles and experiencing it first hand she has come to understand what they need from her; guidance. IDAI is an interlude for young minds to be free of confusion and find a stomping ground right here on American soil.

Check them out here: Interlude Dance Academy Indonesia