'Danco on 'Danco

by Deni Kasrel

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Published: Sep 21, 2006

The dancers are doin' it for themselves in 'Danco on 'Danco, presenting works created and performed by members of the Philadanco corps, as well as its apprentice company and training program. "It's really amazing because there's so many levels mixed in there," says Mora-Mina Parker, who is choreographing a work called "Alternate Universe" for the event.

The dancers manage several aspects of production including choreography, costumes, and lighting. Parker enjoys the chance to move beyond "the physicality of dance" but like many a young creator finds there are challenges to contend with, one of the biggies being the ability to find one's own voice. As a member of Philadanco she is exposed to many styles of movement as conceived by various professional choreographers, however she wants for her own work to be "true and pure" to her personal vision. She describes her movement for "Alternate Universe" as "very avant-garde and comical."

Meanwhile, Ahmad Lemons, whose piece "On the Pulse of Morning" is "modern-based, flowy and gentle" is challenged by the need to make sure his piece reads properly: "You're looking at spacing and movement quality and you have to determine if these things are matching in terms of mood and music."

So it's hard work, but lots of fun, and may offer surprises for Philadanco's devoted fan base. Parker notes, "It's less refined than what we do at the Kimmel. It's a little bit on the edge and you never know what's going to happen."

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