Introduction to Trisha Brown’s Legacy

The Trisha Brown Dance Company, a leading force in contemporary dance, recently presented an engaging program at the Joyce Theater. The showcase featured iconic pieces from the late choreographer, Trisha Brown, celebrated for her innovative and fluid style that emphasizes intricate movement dynamics.

Featured Works

Historical Context

This program highlighted two significant works from Brown’s illustrious career: “Opal Loop/Cloud Installation #72503” (1980) and “Son of Gone Fishin’” (1981). These pieces emerged during a creative phase Brown described as “Unstable Molecular Structures,” marked by complex compositional frameworks that propelled her distinctive movement style.

New Choreography: “Time Again”

Under the direction of Carolyn Lucas, the company has started to introduce new work alongside its heritage repertoire. This season, a new piece titled “Time Again,” choreographed by Australian artist Lee Serle, made its debut. Serle, who has an established connection to Brown as her mentee, infuses his choreography with elements reminiscent of her style while collaborating with the dancers.

Visual and Auditory Elements

Opening with ambient bird sounds, “Time Again” presents a visually engaging tableau. Four dancers are positioned on vibrant green rectangles that transform into woven structures under the creative direction of Mateo Lopez, paired with atmospheric lighting by Jennifer Tipton. The choreography features a range of movements that periodically coalesce and disperse, echoing the themes of cyclical existence.

The Power of “Opal Loop”

In contrast, “Opal Loop” launches the audience into a mesmerizing environment, complemented by a cloud installation crafted by Fujiko Nakaya, which continuously shifts. The dancers initially appear to move independently but soon synchronize in quick bursts of energy, creating an exhilarating viewing experience.

Interconnectedness in “Son of Gone Fishin’”

Brown’s “Son of Gone Fishin’”, the first of her works to integrate music into a proscenium setting, showcases interlocking movements driven by a color-infused backdrop. With a score by Robert Ashley, the piece is characterized by intricate choreography that defies easy comprehension but encourages viewers to appreciate its layered complexity over multiple viewings.

Conclusion

The Trisha Brown Dance Company’s performance at the Joyce Theater serves as a profound tribute to Brown’s artistic legacy while also paving the way for new interpretations of her mesmerizing style. The program encapsulates a celebration of dance that is both historic and contemporary, inviting audiences to engage with the evolving language of movement.

Performances continue through Sunday at the Joyce Theater in Manhattan. For more details, visit Joyce Theater’s official website.