The purpose behind the evening, according to NHDC Founder Joan Brodsky, is to present dance as an art form within a broader context. “Often for the public, dance can seem mysterious or intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be that way,” she said. “That is why I think this event can serve a deeper mission.”
After the performance, which will consist of three short segments of an evening length dance called ‘The Shire,’ the audience will hear from both the choreographer and the dancers. The moderated discussion will frame an even broader look at dance.
“It can enhance our understanding of each other and help us hone our skills for empathy and non-verbal communication,” said Brodsky.
Regarding the performance, ‘The Shire,’ it is NSquared’s Zackery Betty’s bioregional exploration of the state of New Hampshire. “I visited several parts of my new residence in the state of New Hampshire, taking into consideration location, economics, historical references, agriculture, nature, and the region’s culture,” he said.
His exploration of the state resulted in ‘The Shire,’ which assimilates movement based upon improvisations done throughout spaces and places in the regions. “I am excited to always take on new ideas and chose to do [The Shire] with an open mind to communicate my findings through movement,” added Betty, who is co-founder of NSquared.
According to Brodsky, ‘The Shire’ is “a terrific example” of life’s metaphors that can be explored through dance. “Dance is relevant, and it has the power to bring people together—that is so important right now,” she added.
Founded in 2017, NHDC’s mission is “to make dance a more well understood, accessible and utilized art form.” To learn more about NHDC, or register for free to attend Excerpts and Investigation on Wednesday, September 14 at 5:30 p.m. at The Factory on Willow in Manchester,