Elements is a young company (started in 2005) that boasts a unique philosophy based on the four elements: earth, air, water and fire. Artistic Director Mike Gosney's unique perspective on movement provides for a refreshing take in In This Place.
The program begins with the world premiere of Curiosity, a series of pieces that delve into every aspect of exploration as the dancers capture curiosity in its many stages. The dancers' technique is strong but the choreography stronger, as Gosney's work plays off of innovative use of movement, shapes and negative space.
Elements brought in guest choreographer James Gregg, of BJM Danse Montreal, for the company premiere of Fallen, a piece about love and loss. This piece plays up strength and precision, as the dancers narrate the letting go of something close to them.
The standout element of Elements is by far company member and assistant director/company manager Joseph Caruana, whose intensity and passion align with outstanding technique and unmatched strength in his movements. Caruana captures every breath of movement with unbridled determination, his athleticism shining through even the slightest motion.
Caruana and fellow company member Gabrielle Del Re Ashley shine in a
breathtaking pas de deux during the third segment of the show. Caruana
choreographed the piece, entitled Angel, which is set to a
beautiful acoustic guitar song and vocals. The choreography is matched
perfectly to the score, and the two dancers ride the music with a fiery
passion and yet also a gentility. My only complaint is that it had to
end.
The night ends with Mike Gosney's work in progress, Great
and Small, a weaving narrative about nature and the earth performed
by an all female cast of company members and company apprentices.
Straying far from the edgier, darker themes of the night, Great and
Small depicts nature through airy, light movement, as the dancers'
still bourrees and fluid lines are nicely in sync.
If you go: In
this Place is showing April 10, 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. at Ruth Page Center for the Arts.
Tickets are $20-25.
