'Cut Color Move' OFFICIAL VIDEO

James Koroni Choreographer Enforced Arch I am thrilled to release my proudest work yet! So many talented artists worked on this project including Layla Joy an Aveda Cosmetologist, Tracey Katof a commercial and Broadway Showcase Choreographer as the Assistant Choreographer, and Joshua Katcher a talented video artist from Perhaps Media Production Co. stepped in to help capture every moment I had envisioned for Cut Color Move.

Cosmetologist, Layla Joy, contributed all Aveda hair products and sourced them to be cruelty free and environmentally responsible.  Styling for the dancers was either borrowed, thrift or all cruelty free sourced vegan materials. Lifestyle icon, Joshua Katcher recently released his Mens Eco Shoe line which can be seen, worn by me, from his upcoming online store, BraveGentleMan.com.

Without further ado, 'Cut Color Move'! For more on James Koroni and Enforced Arch website visit the About page!

Dear Stranger

Dear Stranger, Enforced ArchDance inspires action, expresses ideas or wisdom, and is given as a gift to others. 'Mover,' Nicole Javanna Johnson has developed a way to implement all three of these elements to make a difference for others while doing what she loves. Johnson created Javanna Productions, a nonprofit organization that presents an annual effort entitled M.O.V.E.: Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment. In this effort all are encouraged to take action, be creative and develop a stronger sense of community within their neighborhoods while raising funds for a cause. This years efforts are entitled M.O.V.E. The Cambodia Project. They are working with the Bernie Krisher foundation to build a school in rural Cambodia, thereby raising awareness and funds for education. The following excerpt from M.O.V.E. The Cambodia Project’s theme song by Bridget Barkan describes our relationship to those whose shoes we may not have walked in, but in light of, whose experiences we can certainly dance:

Dear Stranger, I love you, (I love you) I know, what this world can do to you.

Dear Stranger, I need you. You need me too. Together we can make it through.

The people of Cambodia have faced deep tragedy in the last century. Recovering from genocide requires much forethought. Generous action from strangers will help catapult progress. By building schools we teach Cambodian children their history and generate a light of hope. M.O.V.E. The Cambodia Project has set a goal to raise $20,000 in funds to support their cause.

Fortunately New York City is culturally diverse and provides its patrons with tremendous opportunities in which we can spread awareness and instill what change is needed. Johnson grasps these opportunities to spread Cambodia’s needs, and without question, onlookers emphatically express interest and find ways to support her efforts.

Dear Stranger, Enforced ArchM.O.V.E. The Cambodian Project was most recently seen at the New York Dance Parade with support of Broadway Dance Centers educational department. Now in its fifth year it has brought together almost ten thousand dancers, almost two hundred dance organizations and nearly one hundred unique styles. Before May 21st these dancers may have been considered strangers, but when brought together with a common love for dance one can appreciate and experience their power. Click here for more on M.O.V.E. The Cambodian Project.

Click here to donate and help them reach their goals!

Photography by Serena Dykman

Cut Color Move

Layla Joy, James Koroni, Enforced ArchI recently produced an eco-vegan dance video with compassionate cosmetologist Layla Joy. I admire her for working at Aveda, an environmentally responsible company that manufactures professional plant-based hair care, skin care, makeup, Pure-Fume™ and lifestyle products. After she read 'Skinny Bitch,' a New York Times Best Seller, written by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin, it brought forth a harsh reality that she could not ignore. This set her on a journey to answer one important question, 'Where did this come from and at what cost?' After doing much research she knew that rather than feeling conquered by such tragedy she could find a way to contribute to rebuilding a sustainable life for all living things. She found Aveda and now stands as a proud lead stylist at one of their popular salons!

Our video is scheduled to release in mid June! Here are a few photos to entice your eyes.Elyse Niederee, Enforced ArchLauren Cox, Enforced ArchKiet Lam, Enforced ArchTracey Katof, Enforced ArchJames Koroni, Enforced ArchCut Color Move, James Koroni, Enforced ArchDirector, Editor & Choreographer, James Koroni

Producers, Layla Joy & James Koroni

Aveda Cosmetologist, Layla Joy

Assistant Aveda Cosmetologist, Natalie Hill

Assistant Choreographer, Tracey Katof

Featured Dancers; Elyse Niederee, James Koroni, Lauren Cox, Kiet Lam & Tracey Katof

Video Consultant, Joshua Katcher

Scott Wells & Dancers

A Walk In The Parkour

Scott Wells & DancersI first heard about Scott through a friend who basically said, ‘You should work with this guy. He likes using athletic dancers in his pieces.’ At that time I wasn’t living in San Francisco, but I commuted from Santa Cruz every day for a week to take his summer workshop. The workshop was great and afterward I was sure I wanted to work with him. A few months later I moved to San Francisco. We ran into each other again and he invited me to perform in his annual home season. That was three years ago and I’ve been dancing with him ever since.

Scott’s work is known in the Bay Area for its use of contact improv, deft partnering, acrobatics, and humor. To me his performance pieces are refreshing and satisfying, both as a performer and audience member. By the time the curtain goes up, most of the material has been set into repeatable choreography, but there are almost always a couple of sections that are loosely structured with plenty of room for spur-of-the-moment improvisation, inspiration and risk-taking.

This year, his home season features last year’s “Ball-ist-ic” and premieres “A Walk in the Parkour”. Ball-ist-ic creates unique environments and movement possibilities with dozens of balls: physio balls, medium-sized ‘gertie’ balls, and juggling balls. The work places heavy emphasis on ensemble choreography, as with 7 performers and all the equipment bouncing and rolling around the stage, there are many factors to work with in making sure the sequences go according to plan. Or at least mostly according to plan.Scott Wells & DancersA Walk in the Parkour displays a new hybrid form mixing contemporary dance, contact improv, and parkour. Parkour is an athletic discipline based on efficiently traversing an environment with one’s body. The roots of parkour are in the urban landscape and moving through it with high dynamic. In the past 10 years or so, parkour has gained popularity and become well-known enough to be featured in a number of big budget films. Most cities around the world now have parkour crews practicing together.

Our rehearsals for this piece have taken place at The Athletic Playground, where we have been using vaulting equipment and crash mats to create new vocabulary. Some moves are new versions of parkour standards, such as vaulting over an obstacle only to be caught by another dancer and thrown onto a mat or rolled to the ground. The final piece is quite exhilarating and acrobatic, to say the least.

The show runs at CounterPULSE May 20-22 and 27-29 at 8pm, with a matinee on the 29th at 2pm. www.counterpulse.orgScott Wells & Dancers

Following this Home Season, Scott’s annual summer workshop takes place June 8-12 in San Francisco. The workshop features a variety of exercises in contact improv, lift vocabulary, acrobatic partnering, etc. Participants are encouraged to work at their own level, so you don’t need a lot of improv or acro experience to participate. I have attended six of Scott’s workshops (summer and winter) and assistant-taught a few of them. Each time I have had a total blast and place high value on having that week to build kinetic community and hone skills. scottwellsdance.com

For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his ‘Movers’ page!

Wes Looks East

Wes VeldinkWes Veldink has inspired the dance and arts community in such a way that we will forever experience his genius. He deeply respects future generations and with recent tragedies occurring in Japan he's teamed up with his friends at CARE-WAVE to make a difference. Utilizing their creative talents by producing an evening benefit that will inform our society of what still needs our attention and raise much needed funds. As a choreographer he goes beyond its raw form of expression and transcends into compassionate vision, yet another reason why his influence will live beyond our generation.

A message from NYC FOR JPN Organizer, Wes Veldink:

CARE-WAVE founder, Mayumi Kamata has been my friend and collaborator for over two decades.  In 2007, she started CARE-WAVE following a trip to New York where she was inspired by organizations like BROADWAY CARES.  She quickly organized the artistic community in Tokyo and CARE-WAVE began.

CARE-WAVE is a nonprofit organization that stages socially conscious “CARE-WAVE AID” musicals to deliver true stories of the world, including hunger, poverty and conflict.  CARE-WAVE is committed to nourishing global awareness in children and youth through art.  Proceeds from the performances are donated to aid organizations with the aim of connecting the artists and the audience with humanitarian aid activities around the world, and to spread the wave of caring for others.

Since the earthquakes and tsunami hit Japan, CARE-WAVE has been focusing their efforts to providing relief for survivors by bringing food, water and supplies to areas affected by the recent disaster.  Kesen Numa, home to a children’s theatre company who are regular participants in CARE-WAVE AID productions is currently receiving scheduled relief runs from CARE-WAVE.

We look forward to seeing you at NYC FOR JPN!

(art heals.) Wes

You are invited to attend NYC FOR JPN, an evening of art, music and movement in support of CARE-WAVE, a non-profit organization, providing on-the-ground relief to earthquake and tsunami survivors in the Miyagi region of Japan.  Join us for a pre-show art exhibit and auction, live music and a special selection of solo dance works.  Money raised is going to hit the ground running.  It is a direct and fast way to help people now.  Let’s show our friends in JPN that NYC cares! NYC FOR JAPAN NYC FOR JAPAN Details Date:  Tuesday, May 10th, 2011 Location:  Theater 80 // 80 St. Marks Place btwn 1st & 2nd Ave Time: 6:30pm art exhibit opens // 7:00pm show Tickets: $20 silver // $50 gold // $100 platinum

Featuring solo dance works choreographed & performed by:  Lauren Adams, Tim Anderson, Jessica Hendricks, Shelly Masenoir Hutchinson, Ida Saki, Kristin Sudeikis & Jaclyn K. Walsh

Live Music:  Hazey Jane & Sarah Marzalek-Kelly

Short Films: Ayelen Liberona, Masakazu Saito & Wes Veldink

Auction Artists: Gina Beavers, Aimee G., James Kerr, Studio Marmalade & Deborah Yoon

Co-Producers:  Wes Veldink & Yoshiko Nagai Produced by:  Calm & Sense Creations with Tezoro Productions Production Manager:  Venita McLemore

Tickets: Limited advance tickets available online, remainder will be available at the door. Facebook Event Page Youtube playlist of participating artists CARE-WAVE website

WAYS TO DONATE TO CARE-WAVE:  If you are unable to attend the event, please send your support to CARE-WAVE by mailing an INTERNATIONAL MONEY ORDER / CASHIERS CHECK addressed to CARE-WAVE.

Please mail your donation to - CARE-WAVE c/o Chieko Yanagisawa Yato-Cho 2-1-24-1207 Nishi-Tokyo-City, Tokyo 188-0001 Japan

OR click here to donate now using your credit card.

Arrest Yourself, Yet Again!

Arrest Yourself, James KoroniIf you missed out on our last performance of 'Arrest Yourself' here's your chance to see us live! ‎'M.O.V.E. For Autism' created by 'Mover' Nicole Johnson! April 26th (tonight) from 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM 52nd St Project Theater 2nd floor btwn 52nd & 53rd St on 10th Ave.

Students: $10.00 Adults: $15.00

Arrest Yourself, James Koroni'Arrest Yourself' Choreographer: James Koroni Dancers: Aubrey Bailey, James Koroni, Kiet Lam, Lauren Cox & Scott HamiltonArrest Yourself, James Koroni

Swheat!

Anja Keister, Enforced ArchAnja Keister, Enforced ArchAnja Keister, Enforced Arch I can only imagine what playing Scrabble with this quirky  'Mover' must be like. Anja Keister's choices teem with hilarity and keeps you entertained on all levels. Her innate creativity developed two alternatives to the cruel usage of feathers for traditional burlesque acts.

The group known as D20 Burlesque had a show entitled "Boards and Broads" where each performer took the stage and cleverly constructed or performed their unique rendition of popular games. One lady even built the entire game of Mouse Trap while on stage which left me on the edge of my seat! Anja Keister, a compassionate 'Mover,' was not only the producer of this popular evening at The Parkside Lounge but also performed two acts of her own. Her first performance featured a Scrabble Chip Fan that she constructed herself and for her second performance  she made a beautiful wheat headdress which was part of a game called The Settlers of Catan.  Then there was her faux lambs head heals. Amazing!

Rather than feel defeated by what struggles may come with finding an alternative to feathers, Anja took this opportunity to be creative and in turn expanded our minds and enlightened our evenings!

For more on Anja Keister visit her 'Movers' page!

Dance Against Cancer

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

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

** Logo and Invitation Design by Paula Salhany

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

TICKETS

Spring M.O.V.E.

Next M.O.V.E. For Autism in Washington Square Park: Monday, April 25th at 4:00!

Creator, M.O.V.E. For Autism - Nicole Johnson

Video Editor & Producer - James Koroni

Spring Photography - Stephan Rahim Rabimov & James Koroni

Music - 'Intimate' by Crystal Castles

Dancers - Nicole Johnson, Pierce Cady, Javier Gonzalez, Clare Maceda, Alex Sala, Randel Santangelo & Anthony.

Spring M.O.V.E.. Spring M.O.V.E.. Spring M.O.V.E.. Spring M.O.V.E.

Washington Square Sparks

M.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For Autism
Photography By James Koroni
DANCERS
Nicole Johnson,
Pierce Cady, Javier Gonzalez, Clare Maceda, Alex Sala, Randel Santangelo &
Anthony.

MOVE For Autism, April 26th at 52 Street Project

You are cordially invited to an enchanted evening, with 'Mover' Nicole Johnson, where you will be inspired by artists united by their unique voice, "movement." Javanna Productions' M.O.V.E. (Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment) and Broadway Dance Center presents 'M.O.V.E. For Autism.' A night of movement and dance to raise funds and awareness for the autistic community. Featuring students from BDC's ISVP, Pro Semester, and Training Program along with original M.O.V.E. members and a few special guests!MOVE For Autism

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

MOVE for AutismOur compassionate 'Mover' Nicole Johnson created an initiative for dancers to contribute their "voice" to assist communities with compromised living conditions. She developed JP, Javanna Productions, when she was thirteen years old and since then has had a very positive response from audiences across the country.

JP's 'M.O.V.E.' is their most recent endeavor which is ultimately trying to make the world an easier place to live in. They focus on many different social issues and reach out to those who are in need of resources such as the Autistic community, the Cambodian community, Cancer stricken patients in the U.S. and an orphanage in Uganda. They intend to raise awareness and funds for these causes while using their craft and doing what makes them happy.

Check out their promotional video:

Here's where you can contribute. Simply stop by and enjoy the show! The most charming aspect of Nicole Johnson's 'M.O.V.E.' is all her efforts inspire happiness in the lives of those involved.

Move For Autism

LINKS: AutismSpeaks.org jpmove.webs.com BroadwayDanceCenter.com

Bag Lady

Bag LadyLauren Cox makes her moves despite the weight of this social issue. Domestic violence can be found in many forms. In her piece entitled 'Bag Lady,' Lauren exudes bravery and is determined to free others of what turmoil they are experiencing in their daily lives. She uses her choreographic voice as a platform to inspire and inform others that there is a support system in place for you to fall back upon. The story tellers, or Freedom Sisters, introduce you to a woman lost in a whirlwind of confrontation. Past "baggage" holds her to prior relationships where love was never the foundation. Rather emotional insecurity and manipulation lived as a means to control her heart. As the story unfolds you see the character build confidence through her loving friends. When she finally takes a stand these women are there to assist her in the process of letting go. For upcoming performances of 'Bag Lady' & the Freedom Sisters check back with Enforced Arch!

Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC)

Choreographer Lauren Cox

Assistant Choreographers Andrea Queens & James Koroni

Dancers Andrea Torres, Andrea Queens, Federica Paoli, Klara Beyeler, Lauren Cox, Maria Del Rosario Aviles, Raphael Dw Thomas & James Koroni.

Sasha

James Koroni, ChoreographerI had the opportunity to choreograph and dance for Sasha the "Russian Madonna." Making her debut in the US has been effortless for this fashion forward recording artist. After watching my YouTube Channel she contacted me with much enthusiasm. She wanted me to develop an eclectic performance for her upcoming single release at a local NYC nightclub. James Koroni, Choreographer

With three days to prepare a jaw dropping performance I needed a talented and tirelessly diligent dance choreographer to team up with. I called on my friend Tracey Katof to assist me in the studio the very next evening. She and I completed the piece on the second day and taught the dancers shortly thereafter. Special thanks are owed to our dancers; Jac-Louis Snyman, Lauren Cox & Kelsey Furhman. Their performance energy, positive attitude and professionalism coalesced into a captivating dance experience that no one had anticipated!

James Koroni, Choreographer

Our costumes are pleather military couture tops with chains and prominent shoulder pads. Check out some photos from our performance.[imagebrowser id=10]

Photography by Andrew Werner

James Koroni, ChoreographerI was especially impressed with Sasha for her interest in social issues. Our initial meeting over coffee in the West Village was all about sharing our common interest in communicating world issues and offering compassion through artistry. She is an advocate for a charity called Pencils of Promise. Their work reflects their commitment to sustainable educational opportunities. Their role is to create more than just four walls; the schools they build must continue to provide generations of quality education. To ensure their success, they approach works from the bottom up, finding and working with communities who don't just need a school, but who are invested in creating a successful one. (source)

I appreciated the opportunity to work for an artist that is unconditionally interested in the minds of tomorrow. I wish her the best in all that she does!

For more on Sasha, visit SashaNow.com!

Night Life, Night Lights

I took a trip to the Public Assembly in Williamsburg where the one year anniversary of Beatles Burlesque took place. The experience was whimsical, enchanting and not only did I get to see one 'Mover' perform but there were two compassionate ladies in the line up! Anja Keister & Bettina May each took the stage that evening.

Anja Keister, Enforced ArchAnja Keister & James KoroniBettina May & James KoroniBettina May, Enforced Arch

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These ladies never fail to impress to me. They live to shed light on the burlesque industry which is traditionally rife with feathers and fur. Anja Keister created The Trials and Tribulations of A Vegan Burlesque Performer which features creative and responsible leading ladies while Bettina May makes all of her own garments! You can see more of her wardrobe here!

Check back for more performances by these two Beaming Bombshells!

'Movers' Contribute!

'Movers' Contribute! This controversial ballet featured dancers from Cirque du Soleil, Mozart, and Dracula. It was performed in Paris outside the historic venue, Paris Opéra, just after Stella McCartney's fur-free fashion show. (source)

The french certainly aren't afraid to speak their mind. Why should we be? As artists there are so many ways we can help end inhumane practices. Have you heard of PINNACLE: Reinvent The Icon? With references to fashion and artistry I'd like to mention this initiative that is specifically designed to inspire taste makers to reevaluate the fur industry and create a symbol of rebellion. This can be interpreted in many ways. These talented dancers are making change simply by expressing their opposition to the amount of cruelty that goes into a fur garment.

Numerous industry professionals are already against the use of fur and for apparent reasons. Contribute your work! Create a performance piece or choreograph a dance video and submit it. (here)

Introducing, 'Arrest Yourself'

Ignorance Is Bliss. By avoiding inconvenient and unpleasant information we hide from the worlds current state. Whether it be Factory Farming, Green House Gas or Climate Changes we must understand and address these issues before it's to late. Visit the following link for more about Arrest Yourself!

Arrest Yourself Choreography by James KoroniFEATURING: Lauren Cox Scott Hamilton James Koroni Kiet Lam

VIDEO PRODUCER: Joshua Katcher

CHOREOGRAPHER: James Koroni Contact: JamesKoroni@gmail.com

"Dinner" by Cynthia King

"Dinner," James Koroni

Dancing for Cynthia King was both an emotional and empowering experience. "Dinner" begins with a man enjoying his meal at a table. After a few bites he finds himself distracted by the reality of who is on his plate. He stops eating... now mesmerized by what life or lives the individuals on his plate may have lived. A beautiful larger than life fork and knife lies on each side of a white spotlight  to symbolize the "Dinner" plate upon which the story takes place. Five dancers, including myself, slowly lift our heads and begin to reclaim memories of our existence.

I look forward to dancing for Cynthia King again. Her artistic voice is brave and deliberate and her work inspires me to fearlessly communicate. Living Enforced Arch is no stranger to her.

For more info on Cynthia King visit: Cynthia King Dance