Accent Dance NYC has announced a first look at A Place for Us, a new work by commissioning choreographer Danielle Diniz. The intimate studio screening will take place on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at Open Jar Studios. This preview is part of the organization’s NEXT: Emerging Choreographer Commission Program, currently in its second cycle, and will be followed by the work’s official world premiere in early 2025.

A Place for Us is a 13-minute multidisciplinary piece that combines elements of ballet, contemporary dance, and stage dance to tell the stories of people immigrating to the United States. Diniz draws inspiration from her own family’s journey—her grandmother emigrated from Mexico and her grandfather from Portugal—to create a deeply personal yet universally relatable portrayal of the challenges, hopes, and dreams that accompany the search for a new life in the American melting pot. The work captures the diverse cultural contributions that shape the country and offers a compassionate and comprehensive reflection on what it means to find a place in a new country.

In addition to A Place for Us, the program will include a lyrical contemporary ballet duet, La Bella Cubana, by acclaimed Cuban choreographer Pedro Ruíz, which explores themes of cultural identity and nostalgia. Audiences will also experience the vibrant energy of West African dance and live drumming, based on traditional dances and music from Guinea.

Following the performance, attendees are invited to participate in a talk-back session with Diniz, giving them the opportunity to delve deeper into the themes of the work and its connection to contemporary issues of immigration and identity. The event also takes place during the upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month and underscores Accent Dance NYC’s commitment to celebrating and promoting cultural diversity through dance.

“I am incredibly grateful to Accent Dance for daring to tackle this very personal story. A Place for Us is not just a tribute to my grandparents’ journey from Mexico and Portugal, but a larger narrative that celebrates the resilience and courage of all who seek a new life in America. This piece is a reflection of our shared experience as a nation of immigrants, and I hope it resonates with audiences on a deeply emotional level while celebrating the diversity that makes our country unique.”

“As we continue to champion innovative programming that reflects the diverse stories and challenges of our communities, our collaboration with Danielle Diniz has been a rewarding experience,” notes Andrea Ziegelman, Founder and Director of Accent Dance NYC. “This commission as part of our NEXT: Emerging Choreographer Commission Program reinforces our commitment to nurturing the artistry of young choreographers who bring fresh voices and ideas to the forefront. Danielle’s work is not only a beautiful reflection of her legacy, but also a testament to universal themes of resilience and hope that will resonate with audiences of all ages.”

Comments

To post a comment, you must register And Login.