October 5, 2024

On May 5th, 2024, Peridance Contemporary Dance Company (PCDC) opened its 41st season with an afternoon performance that encapsulated the company’s ability to blend the past and the future in contemporary dance. Held at the KnJ Theater in New York City, the program featured a mix of world premieres and restaged classics, demonstrating the company’s commitment to both emerging talent and established works.

The program began with Chanel DaSilva’s premiere, “The Space Between.” A heartfelt dedication to her late aunt Kaäryn, the piece delved into the realm of ancestral connections and the spiritual bridges between generations. DaSilva’s choreography was emotive and layered, with dancers weaving through intricate formations that felt both deeply personal and universally resonant. The use of lighting and ethereal costuming added to the atmosphere, creating a poignant tribute that left many in the audience visibly moved.

Next on the program was Dolly Sfeir’s whimsical creation, “Would you care for something else?” This piece stood out for its playful and rococo-inspired aesthetic, featuring new music by Devon Yesberger. The choreography was vibrant and exuberant, with a charming sense of humor that set it apart from the more introspective pieces. The dancers seemed to revel in lightheartedness, their movements crisp and precise, yet infused with an underlying sense of joy.

 

Returning to the stage was Mike Tyus’ “With You” (2022), a striking exploration of passion and physicality in homosexual relationships. Tyus’ choreography was intense and intimate, with a dynamic energy that filled the theater. The dancers’ chemistry was palpable, and their movements, at times tender and at other times fierce, conveyed the complexities of love and connection. The audience was spellbound by the piece’s emotional intensity and its ability to convey a powerful story without words.

Artistic Director Igal Perry presented a new solo, “Doloroso,” featuring guest performer Kyle Halford. This piece showcased Halford’s incredible skill and stage presence, with Perry’s choreography allowing him to explore a range of emotions through fluid and expressive movement. It was a beautiful contrast to the earlier works, more introspective and contemplative.

The final piece was a restatement of Perry’s “Intimate Voices” (1995), performed with live music from cellist Nan Chen-Cheng. This classic work demonstrated why Perry’s vision has remained timeless, with a harmonious blend of dance and live music that brought the program to a fitting conclusion. The choreography was graceful and intricate, with a touch of melancholy that resonated with the cello’s soulful tones.

Overall, the 3 pm performance on May 5th, 2024, at Peridance’s KnJ Theater was a stunning showcase of contemporary dance’s versatility and emotional range. PCDC successfully highlighted a new generation of choreographers while honoring Perry’s enduring artistic legacy. The diverse program, coupled with the dancers’ exceptional talent, made for an unforgettable afternoon that left the audience eager for what the next decade of PCDC will bring.

Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Parenting Guide