Gay, Proud & Compassionate

Enforced Arch founder and Co-founder of KaKo NYC, James Koroni, is proud to model John Bartlett's Gay, Proud & Compassionate tank. Details:

In honor of Gay Pride Month, we are proud to present this Limited Edition "John Bartlett Gay, Proud and Compassionate" Tank. This super soft cotton tank features our signature "Tiny Tim" Logo in rainbow foil (a throwback to the great graphic tees from the late 80's/Early 90's.) While these tanks are certainly fun and fabulous – they are more than a cool and colorful way to show your pride this year; with 10% of the proceeds donated directly to The Tiny Tim Rescue Fund, they also highlight another part of our strong and powerful community that is often overlooked - our compassion.

You might also notice this tank was not shot on a model, but an actual member of our community - who is not only proud to be gay, proud to express his love, and proud to be an individual - but also proud to be compassionate and make a difference in the lives of animals - a class of creatures that we so often forget about in today's political atmosphere.

HAVE A HAPPY PRIDE!

Click HERE to get yourself a Gay, Proud & Compassionate Tee or Tank by John Bartlett!

Burlesque Without Borders

Bombshell Bettina May is making an appearance in 'Burlesque Without Borders'.  Details for the above performances are listed below.

May 24:	Washington, DC - *Burlesque Without Borders* at Red Palace, 1212 H St NE. An all international cast of burlesque with Canadian Cutie Bettina May, Finland's LouLou D'vil, and Spanish Siren Medianoche, with host Albert Cadabra. Doors 8:30, show at 9pm. Tickets $10 advance, $12 at the door. Click here for advance tickets!
May 25:	Wilmington, DE - *Burlesque Without Borders* at MOJO 13, 1706 Philadelphia Pike. An all international cast of burlesque with Canadian Cutie Bettina May, Finland's LouLou D'vil, and Spanish Siren Medianoche, with host Albert Cadabra. Doors at 8pm, show at 9:30pm. Tickets $10 advance, $12 at the door, available at MOJO 13. Must be 21+.
May 26:	West Chester, PA - *Burlesque Without Borders* at The Note, 142 E. Market Street. An all international cast of burlesque with Canadian Cutie Bettina May, Finland's LouLou D'vil, and Spanish Siren Medianoche, with host Albert Cadabra. Doors at 9pm, show at 10pm. Tickets $10 advance, $12 at the door. Click here for advance tickets!

Battie Bwoy Fi Dead!!!

The Dixon Place Presents: Battie Bwoy Fi Dead!!! Get ready to laugh, cry, and think as Bulletyme The Artist takes you on a journey you will never forget. See life through the eyes of The Sissy, The DL Thug, and The Spiritual Guru. After surviving bouts with suicide, failure, and family tragedy, he created this show to remind the LGBT community why self love is the most important lesson one will ever learn.

Film and Photography - Prince Alexander Lutomirski Artistic Design - Ronie Reives

The Dixon Place Lounge is open before, during, and after the show. Proceeds directly support Dixon Place's artists and mission.

'MoonShoes' 10% off

Here's a great opportunity to get yourself a good looking pair of sneakers for Hip Hop class and support an endangered species. I might get myself a pair of these good looking Hensley Sneakers from Macbeth Footwear (more from Macbeth). DETAILS:

Get your shop on for the bears with ‘MoonShoes’. On Saturday, May 12th 10% of all proceeds at MooShoes (online and in store) will go to Animals Asia and their work helping endangered moon bears.

Moon Shoes Facebook Event

Peach Ballerina Bettina May

Mover, Bettina May has never failed to impress me with her charm. She designs and constructs all of her own costumes and this another beautiful example of her talents.

Shot at House of Yes by Matt Stuart.

Music: Parisian Women by Cy Coleman Petite Fleur by Henri Rene

For mature audiences.

See more of Bettina May's burlesque performances at www.bettina.ca.

In addition, don't forget to sign up for her next Pin-Up class HERE!

NY Times said:

"Fully costumed and made up I felt transformed, sexy, feminine – confident." Pretty As A Pin-Up - New York Times East Village

A GOOD DAY 2 PIE

The Brooklyn Culture Jammers will be performing at Brooklyn College next Saturday as part of the Brooklyn Peace Fair. Kathleen Stansell will be performing A GOOD DAY 2 PIE at 1:45 PM. This is a FREE EVENT.

A GOOD DAY 2 PIE is the story of Vandana, an activist with the Biotic Baking Brigade arrested for hitting the CEO of Monsanto with a pie in order to protest genetic modification of food. Vandana talks of a childhood spent in community life and activism, and explains that her action was undertaken because of the fact that ‘food is off limits’ to tinkering. Through it all, she uses the changes in food as metaphor for ‘bad magic’--those things in modern society that require faith in invisible actions. A GOOD DAY 2 PIE features Kathleen Stansell as the activist.

A GOOD DAY 2 PIE was originally produced at Kairos Theatre one-act festival in May of 1999. It has since been toured to college campuses and venues and has been performed some 30 times in support of green initiatives. This is a brand-new production of the play.

ABOUT BROOKLYN CULTURE JAMMERS: We are a collective of music, theatre and spoken word artists committed to the Occupy Wall Street movement. We embrace the challenge of changing the terms of convention and using our talents to confront the status quo.

ABOUT THE OCCUPY THE EMPIRE TOUR: the tour is a cultural outreach for talking about what change is possible in 21st century America. We are developing plays and dance and music pieces to call attention to the need for serious change in this country and this world.

For information about our tour, contact us at bkculturejammers@gmail.com.

Notic Nastic - Sneak Peek

We recently collaborated with Notic Nastic, an extraordinary artist from Berlin to create a music video for their hit single Sunsetboys. At this time we can not unfold the details but here is a sneak peek at the process:

CREDITS Recording Artist - Notic Nastic Video Director - Joshua Katcher Creative Directors - James Koroni, Joshua Katcher, Notic Nastic Choreographers/Producers - James Koroni, Tracey Katof Makeup/Hair - Tracey Katof Dancers - Charles Alexis Desgagnes, Christopher Nolen, James Koroni, Julio Hugo Penagos, Katherine Roarty, Keshia Robinson, Lauren Cox, Tracey Katof Mens' shoes - Brave GentleMan Womens' shoes - Cri De Coeur and Novacas, courtesy of Mooshoes Womens' apparel - Ruffeo Hearts Lil Snotty Men's apparel - n/a (vintage and second hand)

ALLIANCE - Double Shadow

Double Shadow is a commentary on the separation of masculinity and compassion. The masculine character in mainstream culture is a brute, the bread winner and of course, emotionless. These stereotypes are limiting and oppressive. Double Shadow presents the masculine character, exposes it’s struggles to survive with unrealistic expectations and offers viewers an opportunity to witness individuals who aren’t afraid to be seen as compassionate or sensitive.

Dancers Charles-Alexis Desgagnés James Koroni Julio Hugo Penagos Keshia Robinson Klara Beyeler Lauren Cox

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 - Wrinkled $ by Clara Lofaro

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

M.O.V.E. - Grant's Safari

Last week I had the pleasure of witnessing Grant's Safari, from Javanna Productions, under the creative direction of Nicole Johnson. When it comes to the Safari you might imagine a ruthless world but in watching 'Grant's Safari', I had a very different experience. It's complexity was worth being taken on a journey through.

Nicole Johnson derived inspiration from her brother who is a member of the autistic community. She explained that there is no need to focus on the limitations of these individuals. They have many talents and aspirations. She tapped into her brothers driving force, which happens to be the Safari. Her brother, Grant Johnson can name more animals and facts about them than anyone she knows. This fascinating truth is why Nicole decided to collaborate with him to create 'Grant's Safari'.

You can follow Nicole Johnson's community efforts here: JPmove.webs.com!

ALLIANCE Art & Activism - Teaser

If you missed last night, don't fret. TONIGHT is our closing night and you can still get tickets HERE!

'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

MixTape Dance - 'Daily Psongs'

Don't miss MixTape Dance Company, TONIGHT at Manhattan Movement & Arts Center.

A word from 'Daily Psongs' creative director, Anneliese Kappey:

MixTape Dance was designed to do two things: first, to bridge a large gap between those who appreciate dance and those who haven’t; second, to bring to the stage dancing that is technical and exciting, while telling stories that convey honest emotions everyone can access. We tell modern stories, we create characters with which everyone can empathize, we dance to pop music, songs that have provided the soundtrack of our lives. We reference famous movies, lines from books, and pop culture in general. We bring to the stage intricate, technically challenging movement with notably complex musicality. Most importantly, these elements are only components of a larger whole, an offering where pure human emotion is the motivation. It feels right. The dancers feel it, and the audience does too.

For TICKETS visit: http://www.enforcedarch.com/tickets/

ALLIANCE - Part 7: Julio Hugo Penagos

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

ALLIANCE: Part 5 - Klara Beyeler

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

We're ready... are you?

Quick photo after rehearsal. We're ready... are you?'ALLIANCE' Art & Activism

EnforcedArch.com/tickets/

ALLIANCE: Part 4 - Alexandra Shieron

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

All Smiles - The Kiner Hour Radio Show

Sunday night on The Kiner Hour Radio Show Tracey Katof and I, James Koroni, had the pleasure to meet Host Ashani Mfuko and Exit 12 Dance Company Artistic Director Roman Baca. Here's a few clips from the show:

ALLIANCE: Part 3 - Katherine Roarty

Katherine 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! 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. 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

TONIGHT on The Kiner Hour Radio Show

TONIGHT, on The Kiner Hour Radio Show, Special Guest, Choreographer and Artistic Director of Exit 12 Dance Company, Roman Baca, and Enforced Arch Creative Directors, James Koroni, and Tracey Katof.

Live on Sundays: 7 pm – 8 pm EST on Mission 101 Broadcasting.

The live show begins at 7 pm EST on http://mission101broadcasting.com.

Tune in, and call in live at 917-267-8924!

This show covers hot topics in the dance world, dance events, the business side of the dance industry, how to be successful in the dance industry, health and wellness, social media for dance tips, and how to stay positive and motivated as a dance studio owner, dance teacher, and professional dancer, with special guest interviews from dance-industry leaders.

Roman Baca entered the U.S. Marine Corps in 2000 and was eventually deployed to Iraq. He returned to Connecticut and struggled to re-adjust himself to civilian life. He finally found purpose in his life…in dance. Baca started the Exit 12 Dance Company and is the artistic director there. He’s preparing to embark on a trip back to Iraq later this month where he will teach dance to local children there. Roman will share about his personal experience in Iraq, and about healing through dance.

Enforced Arch is a performance arts community of intelligent communicators who use their unique talents to bring life to environmental and social issues. In their spring performance at Manhattan Movement & Arts Center they will be presenting a collection of past and new works honoring the ‘ALLIANCE’ of art and activism. For Enforced Arch these performances mark the first presentation of works by creative directors, James Koroni and Tracey Katof.

ABOUT THE HOST: Ashani Mfuko is a professional dancer/dance instructor, the CEO/President of Kiner Enterprises Inc., a media personality, and the host of The Kiner Hour – Let’s Talk Dance with Ashani Mfuko Internet radio show. She has made appearances on The Tyra Banks Show, Good Morning America, The Bill Cunningham Show, Showtime at the Apollo, in films, music videos, and live performances at venues including; Lincoln Center, Madison Square Garden, The Ailey Citigroup Theater, and The Joyce — Soho. Ashani has taught at The Ailey Extension, Steps on Broadway, Ballet Hispanico, and tons of dance studios, public and private schools, and after-school programs, throughout the New York Metropolitan area.

Too Often "Forgotton" Warm-Up

As dancers, our bodies need to warm up before hitting the intense choreography in rehearsal.  In class, we have the luxury of being led through a 15-45 minute warmup.  Somehow when we are starting rehearsals, and no one is there to lead the warmup, dancers take a few static stretches and jump right into the choreography.  Here is my recommendation for 3 easy steps to a pre-rehearsal warm up.

1.  Start Moving.  This should feel good and easy on your joints. Think of making fluid movements, engaging all the muscles in your body.  Take an inventory as you move, focusing on different parts of your body. For example,  take the focus from your head and neck, down through your torso to the ribs and pelvis, then out through your limbs.  You can repeat this list several times.  Make sure to engage your abs as you move.  The core protects your spine and helps you find your center.

2. Pay attention to your body.  If some parts of your body are super sore, take extra time to get them moving.  For tight hips and leg muscles, try some leg swings front & back as well as side to side.  For stiff ankles and feet, try ankle circles. Now that your body is getting warm, it is also safe to do some light stretching.

3.  Mimic the Choreography.  Next start to partake in movements similar to the style of the choreography. If you will be doing a lot of jumps, warm up your ankles with smaller jumps or simply jog in place.  I will often do a slower and smaller version of some of the choreography, exaggerating the contraction of my muscles.  This helps my body warm up and get ready to do the movement full out.

Warm-up Secret: This is one of the first things you ever learned in school... The Alphabet!  Use any joint (or your whole body) to draw in the air all of the letters of the alphabet and see how warm you get.  This tool is especially beneficial for the ankles and hips.