Paris Journal 2011 Part 7

There's a cool organic boutique here in Paris named Green In The City. While there I was given a cool pair of socks from Knowledge Cotton Apparel. They're made of Organic Cotton, which I appreciate because there are many reasons to support this environmentally responsible textile. I enjoy their quirky design. It reminds me of the notorious Beetlejuice. I like to believe that my legs extend longer when wearing them, much like the way Beetlejuice's arms unfurl, revealing two mallots or in my case feet! Well... I can dream. For now I'll enjoy these fun  & comfy Organic Cotton socks!

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Paris Journal 2011 Part 6

A trip to a Parisian Farmers Market where we found vegan Croissants (Croissant végétal)!

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Paris Journal 2011 Part 5

At the Grand Palais I stood in a line along with a thousand excited Parisians to enter and experience an evening of flash mobs, cultural dancing, free gifts and all at no entry fee! How is this possible? Never have I seen anything like it! In line I could have lifted my feet and floated along with the crowd into this event. I'm not kidding! Once inside I was given an umbrella and a T-shirt with a babies body on it! There really is no other way to describe the space other than a Grand Palace with a central dome and two vast wings that were completely open space, free from obstruction. The architecture was breathtaking with two staircases at the opposite end from the entrance. As you look up you're reduced to the ant you are. In that moment I lost and gained an equivalent amount of inspiration and desolation. Then my eyes reconnected with the presentations!

First of all there was 300 people at the main stage holding open umbrellas with the Baby T-shirt on, all participating in a follow my lead type of dance instruction.

Now when I said cultural dance I was referring to classes. Only the classes weren't taught to you live. There were 12 foot LCD screens lifted 5 feet from the ground with a repeating video with a master of each dance form helping you through the basics of each style. You could find anything from Ballet, Contemporary, Capoeira, Belly Dance, LA style(haha),  African, Hip Hop, Buchaechum, Bollywood, etc.

Then on either corner of the space were stages where performances from all these style were performed by dance artists from France. An invigorating experience!

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Paris Journal 2011 Part 4

The Eiffel Tower Freestyle Dance (La Tour l'Eiffel danse main-levée)

Celine Orang, owner of Creadanse in Paris, invited James Koroni, creative director of Enforced Arch to dance under the Eiffel Tower with the students of Creadanse led by Loïc "Speedylegz" a member of Criminalz Crew and one of Madonna's current dancers!

featuring Céline Orang James Koroni Loïc "Speedylegz"

editor James Koroni camera operator Joshua Katcher

brought to you by www.enforcedarch.com special thanks to www.creadanse.net

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Paris Journal 2011 Part 3

I really wasn't expecting a day like today. I woke up at noon with no sign of my biological clock. Not that I didn't get enough sleep but I felt as though it could be 8 AM or 4 PM. Very odd! Well Joshua and I decided to skip breakfast and eat lunch at a vegetarian restaurant called Le Potager du Marais. It took us 20 minutes on the Metro to arrive. Finally at Le Potager du Marais I ordered a mushroom pate with le café avec le soja (coffee with soy). Although I didn't order a dessert at this time I took a few pictures of them in the deli case!  Have a look:

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Capoeira Workshop with Bud Burdick

Compassionate Mover, Bud Burdick presents the first of three Capoeira workshops at Studio Anya! Each workshop will cost $15 and will be 2 hours long. There is limited space, so please pre-register here:

Sunday, October 2 · 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Studio Anya 49 West 24th St Manhattan, NY

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Capoeira is a Brazilian art form and self-defense with strong dance and aerobic elements. It is a harmony of forces that evokes power, flexibility, endurance, and self-discovery. Capoeira balances the body, mind, and soul, in a graceful and exciting manner that teaches you to be alert. Being the only indigenous martial art of the Americas developed by African slaves in Brazil, it is rooted in strong traditions that will enable you to break through limits and build self-confidence. The physical and mental challenges that arise are within anyone’s reach, regardless of age, sex, or athletic experience. This workshop will explore movement, music, and the philosophy of Capoeira.

-Bud Burdick

For more information, please visit www.StudioAnya.com

Paris Journal 2011 Part 2

Last night Joshua & I took a stroll to the local bio supermarche (organic supermarket) where we picked up soy yogurt, fresh tomatoes & cucumbers, olive spread, an assortment of vegan deli slices and vegan cheese alternatives so we were set for today's homemade meals. Our gracious host made coffee before we even woke up. As we sipped the fresh coffee, creamed with chestnut milk, we enjoyed soy yogurt with a dollup of rhubarb jelly. What a delightful way to start the day!

Then I explored the surrounding neighborhood near our metro station called Porte de Clichy. I found it interesting to see how cordially people interact. Although the pace is still quick like New York City, people acknowledge you when you walk into a store and pardon themselves when they bump into you. On my way back to prepare lunch I stopped into the same boulangerie (bakery), as I had the night before, to grab a fresh baguette. The gentleman recognized me and excitedly hopped out of his seat and reached for the whole grain baguette that I had previously ordered without me asking for it. To top that, he respectfully attempted to teach me how to ask for it in French! I already forgot how to say it but I will return tomorrow for yet another chance to learn!

Upon arriving home we had lunch. A french grain baguette, Vitaquell Creme Olive spread, Vegi-Cheezly & Taifun Papillon. I then chopped up crisp organic produce such as cucumbers & heirloom tomatoes to accompany our sandwiches.

In the evening I attended a debate on Ethical Fashion hosted by the American University of Paris (AUP) where Joshua Katcher spoke. Many points were made regarding fair labor, sustainability, animal rights, buying local, etc. I won't delve into it but if any of these topics interest you I recommend Joshua Katcher's website for Ethical Gentleman called The Discerning Brute. An exciting moment during his presentation was when he mentioned his Anti-Fur initiative PINNACLE: Reinvent the Icon, which encourages artists to use their creative voice to speak up against the cruelty involved with Fur production. During this part of Joshua's presentation he used my performance piece, 'Please, Don't Touch' as an example of an artists contribution. The AUP panel then walked to a charming french restaurant near the college to have dinner. Luckily there was one vegan penne vegetarienne on the menu! I enjoyed it with an organic glass of Rose.

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Paris Journal 2011 Part 1

Walking through the streets of Paris today I noticed that many Parisians present themselves in such a way that shows self respect and confidence. I don't mean designer labels and expensive accessories. I'll call it thoughtful. I appreciate their thoughtful sensibilities because I very similarly put thought into what I wear, for example, in the image above Joshua Katcher & I are both wearing vegan biker jackets from APRIL 77. The "Mastermind" shoes on the left are from Brave Gentleman, an eco-vegan brand. I previously wore these shoes for the dance promo video Cut Color Move. Here are a few vegan meals I've enjoyed thus far:

Airplane Food: chickpea masala, white rice & broccoli, romaine salad with tomatoes & olive oil/balsamic dressing & honeydew. Bon appétit!

Dinner: grain baguette, Vitaquell Creme Olives, Vegi-Cheezly & Taifun Papillon.

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Have Mercy & Please, Don't Touch

Movers, James Koroni & Tracey Katof were invited to perform 'Please, Don't Touch' at Have Mercy!, a fashion event at Greenhouse NYC, organized by the U.S. Veg Corp. Check it out:

The Vegan Vine

Earlier this week 'Mover' James Koroni was invited to attend a three course dinner at Candle 79, hosted by The Vegan Vine. Each course was paired with a wine from their vineyards in the Northern Central Coast of California. Here's what was served that evening: APPETIZER

Whole Wheat Ravioli sauteed summer vegetables in a sauvignon blanc wine sauce with cashew cheese. Paired with Sauvignon Blanc, Central Coast, California 2010

ENTREE

Walnut Crusted Seitan wild mushrooms, hericot verts, celeriac puree, red wine reduction. Paired with Red Wine, Central Coast, California 2009

DESSERT

Fig Napoleon cashew cream, vanilla ice cream, fig compote and a cabernet reduction Paired with Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast, California 2008

In most wines, animal products are used as processing aids in the “fining” or filtration part of the winemaking process to help remove solids such as grape skins, stems and seeds. (source) The most common animal ingredients used in making wine are:

• Isinglass, a very pure form of gelatin from sturgeon fish bladders
• Gelatin, extract from boiled cow’s or pig’s hooves and sinews
• Egg whites
• Caseins, a protein from milk

For more information visit, http://theveganvine.com/

Have Mercy!

Compassionate 'Mover' Sarah Gross and business partner Nira Paliwoda of U.S. Veg Corp present fur-less fashion in their event at Greenhouse. (An eco-friendly TriBeCa venue)

“Have Mercy! (Fashion Event)” will feature new couture designs, vegan treats, music, dancing, and chocolate. Proceeds from the affair will benefit Mercy for Animals, a New York-based animal rescue organization.

Each of the fashion lines to be showcased bills itself as anti-fur and earth-friendly. Among them:

· Fraley Le, an award-winner from Chicago whose specialties include vibrantly colored evening gowns and cocktail dresses.

· Yane Mode, an edgy brand famous for its sleek drapings and soft jersey knits.

· Pretty Birdie by Stephanie Teague, who creates apparel and accessories from organic and sustainable fabrics infused with antique surplus and recycled materials.

· Sew Moe Designs, based in Asheville, South Carolina, offering handmade updated-vintage originals.

Weaving amongst the models, partygoers will find hors d’oeuvres from Verite Catering, dark chocolates from Rescue Chocolate, additional desserts from Bolaji Cuisine, functional waters from Balance, and other drinks from Mercy Beverage.

Entertainment is be provided by Enforced Arch's compassionate 'Movers' James Koroni, Tracey Katof and Lauren Cox. They will perform 'Please Don't Touch' an Anti-Fur piece choreographed by James Koroni that has been invited to perform in Paris later this month! Check out their video here: http://www.indiegogo.com/Please-Dont-Touch Also you can count on an appearance from vegan drag queen Honey LaBronx!

The backdrop for all of these goings-on is located at 150 Varick Street. The Greenhouse is New York’s first nightclub with LEED certification. Its walls are made of sustainable bamboo rather than wood, and the space is constructed mostly from recycled materials. It has the feel of a glitzy nature preserve with a huge waterfall and a ceiling made of live plants.

Tickets for Have Mercy! are $25 in advance (http://bit.ly.nTFf8p) and $40 at the door. The event will run from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Funds will be donated to Mercy for Animals, a national non-profit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to farmed animals and promoting compassionate food choices and policies.

MASTER CLASS Fundraiser

          With choreographers James Koroni & Tracey Katof of Enforced Arch website! All proceeds go towards the 'Please, Don't Touch' fundraiser.

$20 - 2 hr class* Tuesday, September 13th at 7:00 PM Location: Pearl Studios Nyc Studio K 500 8th Ave., New York, NY 10018

7:00 PM - 7:45 PM Contemporary warm-up including pilates strengthening

7:45 PM - 9:00 PM Athletic & quirky Contemporary segment from 'Please, Don't Touch'

*The Enforced Arch community is searching for compassionate 'Movers' for upcoming opportunities. This is a great way for us to get to know you as a dancer and artist!

Tonya Kay, Vegetable Fueled x2

In my current hometown of New York City there really is no need to own a car but if I lived in Los Angeles it would be another story. Los Angeles is where compassionate 'Mover' Tonya Kay currently lives. Being environmentally conscious has always been a concern of hers so she found a way to have a hot car and avoid all the exhaust that comes with it by fueling her vehicle, the Grape Space Coaster, with Vegetable oil! She was recently featured, along with the Grape Space Coaster, in a Pilot which was submitted for, accepted and aired on Speed TV last month! The Enforced Arch community would like to congratulate her on this success and also thank her for taking this opportunity to show that you can drive a hot car and avoid using environmentally and socially devastating gasoline as a source for fuel.

Check out her appearance on Speed TV here:

An Economic Cycle: Intro, Erin Lindsay

I had lunch at Jivamukti Cafe with Erin Lindsay to discuss her recent project, An Economic Cycle (AEC). Her event turned out to be a beautiful evening of sculpture, community and dance. AEC explores an artists careful attempt to transform an abandoned riverside landfill into the now beautiful Socrates Sculpture Park and breaks it down into 9 smaller parts. Socrates Sculpture Park has seen a great deal in the past 25 years. Before it's birth, you would have seen an abandoned riverside landfill and illegal dump site where there was reported criminal activity. This wasteland left little room for safe, communities where children could explore and develop their personal identities. Erin spoke of a man named Mark di Survero who led a coalition of artists in 1986 to develop this piece of land and turn it into an open studio and exhibition space for artists and a neighborhood park for local residents.

AEC Mission Statement:

Artists are humble. They reach out to the industrious society for reclamation and in return; justify the cause of giving back through their ability of creative expression. When industry fails and society begins to landslide. When the economic struggle has set in and innovation begins to lessen; the arts will in fact stand. A garden will be planted where a landfill once lingered. We will change the lives of others and a void that once was; will be diminished. The arts will give back when hope has been lost.

Erin developed a 9 part series which illustrates this transformation, performed by 9 different dance companies. More to come, check back with Enforced Arch as we explore each step of Erin Lindsay's interpretation of An Economic Cycle!

James Koroni's Birthday & Fundraiser

Our fundraising event on Tuesday evening went brilliantly. The turn out was outstanding! A crowd made up of friends, family, artists, activists, fashion industry professionals, dancers, choreographers, Clara Lofaro fans and of course the lure of Bettina May topped it all off! I could not have had a more splendid time. A special thanks you to all those involved including: Bettina May , dough-nut stop till you get enough!

Clara Lofaro accompanied by Andrea Torres on Taps!

Lauren Cox & myself performing 'Please, Don't Touch' with Marlena Pavich's Anti-Fur pants!

Verite Catering

The West Cafe in Williamsburg

Thank you to Cocoa V, Blossom Du Jour, Bettina May's PinUp Class, Foodswings, Tracey Katof, Bud Burdick, Carly Fox Horton, Joshua Katcher, Vaute Couture and of course thank you for being in attendance!

As for the fundraiser element, we raised just enough to send one dancer to Paris which means there is still more outreach to be done. We have created an IndieGoGo web page. If you know anyone that might be interested in our cause please send the following link their way:

http://www.indiegogo.com/Please-Dont-Touch

Here is the launch of our video:

‘Please, Don’t Touch’ focuses energy on a topic that sits at the intersection of social justice, ecology and design. Our ultimate goal is to to become effective conduits for empathy and creative tools for change. Through the use of live performance, transmedia and personal interaction, this project will impact the heavily guarded perceptions of fur iconography by shedding light on what isn’t revealed behind the glitz and glamor.

"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!'

Lemon Meringue, Part 4: Lauren Cox

Lauren Cox danced in the Equity Showcase of Lemon Meringue. Here she shares her feelings surrounding the plays social issue of childhood sexual abuse. This incredibly important performance about Rich Ryan from Long Island depicts one mans struggles to overcome the devastating effects of childhood sexual abuse. How do you feel Lemon Meringue will help others who are suffering from childhood sexual abuse?

I believe just the existence of this play and the fact that survivors are speaking loudly about this issue sends a positive message to those suffering from childhood sexual abuse.   If those same people could see the triumph of Rich's journey it would offer more than hope but a doorway into the survival community, a community which offers support and guidance through the healing process.

What part of the rehearsal process did you derive inspiration from to tackle this sensitive topic?

I played a sort of bad influence on Rich for most of the play, accompanying him on his drug trips, which was something completely new for me.  We were all called upon to actually feel what drugs offer, a sense of relief from such deep pain and rage, and through that process I understood just a bit about what was stolen from children and adults suffering from this abuse.  It is a heavy, unbearable and self loathing entity, something that eats away at your mental stability and growth leaving you to constantly question yourself.  It was amazing to be able to speak openly with the survivors about their attackers, processes of healing and strength.  I performed with and for them every show and we should all celebrate their resilience.

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

Speak up because you never know who you will inspire!

For info visit, www.lemonmeringue.org.

Lemon Meringue, Part 1: Carly Fox Horton Lemon Meringue, Part 2: Tracey Katof Lemon Meringue, Part 3: James Koroni

Love In A Tub!

Here is a promo for Love In A Tub!, a theatrical rockomedy that will be performed live as part of the 2011 New York International Fringe Festival. Love In A Tub! includes appearances from Mover, James Koroni along with many other talented artists.

Dot the Connective and “Rock & Roll” Joel Bassin Present:

Love In A Tub! Written by James Manzello and Oliver Wason Featuring ruthlessly stolen excerpts from a Restoration play by Sir George Etherege Directed by James Manzello, Oliver Wason and Joel Bassin

Featuring: Alexander Kikis as Colonel Bruce Chris Gizzi as Himself Dan Blondell as Dufoy Fufoy Drew Mendoza as Grandma Bevill Emily Kron as Graciana Bevill Hunter Cain as Aurelia Bevill James Koroni as The Coachmen/Ensemble James Manzello as Lord Genesis Beaufort Jimmy Joe McGurl as Sir Frederick Frollick Joshua R. Pyne as Lovis Bevill Marisa Parry as Ensemble Morgan Scott as Ensemble and Charlize Theron* (* = Not actually in the cast)

Costume Designer - Lui Konno Lighting Designer - Oliver Wason Production Stage Manager - Louise Hollander Stage Manager - Lauren Pope Sound Engineer - Fabio Blazina

More info at loveinatub.tumblr.com!

Sarah Gross

SARAH GROSS

Sarah Gross is a classically trained dancer who has performed with the City Ballet of San Diego, California Ballet, Columbia City Ballet, and Human Affect when it gave a special performance at the United Nations. A constant gym rat, she developed and has taught a unique workout routine called Ballet Burn. She has also run in several marathons, and is a Pilates instructor in Brooklyn. She derives her energy from twin passions: animal rescue and dark chocolate. Recently she founded the Rescue Chocolate company, which donates all of its profits to various animal rescue organizations.

"Being vegan is an essential part of my outlook on life. I have never had as much energy or stamina as I've had eating vegan. And I love the peace of mind I get knowing that what I wear, what I do, how I look, and how I move, are all based upon reverence for every living thing." --Sarah Gross

VEJA Collections

The NEW Veja Collection includes the handsome Mediterranee, made from organic cotton canvas and a wild Amazonian rubber vulcanized sole. Perfect accent to all commercial dance styles! Check them out here.