TREES ACT 1
Premiere Date: May 2025
Premiere Locations: Yonkers, NY and New York, NY (New York Live Arts)
Choreography: Morgan McEwen
Composer: Polina Nazaykinskya
Lighting Design: Becky Hielser
Costume Design: Morgan McEwen
TREES ACT 2
About: Trees is a contemporary ballet inspired by the research of forest ecologist Suzanne Simard, whose work revealed that forests function as interconnected communities rather than collections of individual organisms. Drawing from her studies of mycorrhizal networks, the underground fungal systems through which trees exchange nutrients and information, the choreography translates ecological interdependence into movement. Trees invites audiences to consider the natural world not as a passive backdrop but as a living network of relationships, and to reflect on human responsibility within those systems.
Composer Terry C. Reiley
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Emily Cardea, Lauren Treat, Claire Van Bever, Tevin Johnson, Brian Gephart, Jace Coronado, David Hochberg
IN C
About: "In C," an entrancing ballet, draws inspiration from Terry Riley's groundbreaking composition. Riley's minimalist masterpiece, composed in 1964, forms the foundation of this captivating performance. Comprising 53 modular fragments, the composition interlaces in evolving patterns. McEwen brilliantly translates Riley's essence into dance, capturing it through layered backdrops mirroring musical phrases. The ballet incorporates the pulsating force of the constant C note, reflecting life's transient nature. It merges allegro with pedestrian motion, creating a dynamic performance. Hochman of Critical Dance hails it as "ceaselessly interesting," praising execution by the eight-member ensemble. Light and shadow add visual allure, reflecting and illuminating music. "In C" blends Riley's composition with McEwen's choreography, celebrating minimalism's spirit, uniting dance and music. The ballet offers a transcendent journey, epitomizing experimentation and creativity, etching a lasting impression of beauty and innovation.
Emily
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Composer Polina Nazaykinskaya
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Camila Rodrigues, Emily Cardea, Lauren Treat, Claire Van Bever, Tevin Johnson, David Hochberg, Dustin James, Joe LaLuzerne
About: Inspired by Emily Dickinson's "They Shut Me Up In Prose," this work resonates as a testament to female resilience in patriarchal societies. McEwen, herself familiar with censorship, passionately explores challenges faced by young women seeking authentic voices. Blending classical and modern ballet, McEwen collaborates with composer Polina Nazaykinskaya, enhancing emotional depth through live piano and viola accompaniment. Each movement encapsulates stages of a woman's journey from youth to self-awareness, defiance, action, and peace. It's an ode to women triumphing over adversity, finding voice amidst storms. The choreography offers transformative storytelling, highlighting the ongoing struggle for self-expression. The ballet underscores the need to amplify women's voices, inspiring action against oppression and nurturing an inclusive platform for all voices to be heard.
Eroded Silhouettes
About: Eroded Silhouettes is a contemporary ballet for three female dancers examining the gradual loss of human rights, particularly the erosion of women’s freedoms. The work begins with a solitary figure, embodying isolation and individual suffering, before expanding into a shared experience as two additional dancers enter.
Throughout the piece, the dancers interact with three pigments - ash, rust, and red - staining their white dresses. Ash suggests the aftermath of destruction and the lingering shadows of oppression, rust reflects the slow decay of dignity, and red evokes violence and sacrifice. Through shifting relationships, physical resistance, and collective movement, the ballet explores both vulnerability and resilience, asking audiences to consider the human cost of injustice and the responsibility to protect fundamental rights.
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Lauren Treat, Claire Van Bever, Ayaka Kamei
On The Waterfront
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Composer Leonard Bernstein
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Courtney Catalana, Ayaka Kamei, Xiaoxiao Cao, Rachel Thalman, Josh Beaver, Michael Holden, Daniel Powers, Nicholas Rose
About: "On The Waterfront," a profound ballet, pays tribute to Leonard Bernstein on his centenary birth. The evocative score, initially composed for the 1954 film, resonates with haunting beauty. Choreographer Morgan McEwen's vision is ignited by Bernstein's struggle to meld music with scenes. The work deftly transcends these challenges, unifying dance and music in a harmonious expression of human depth. The ballet exemplifies the transformative synergy between dance and music. McEwen's choreography unveils their intrinsic connection, celebrating Bernstein's legacy while forging new creative paths. Through this interpretation, "On The Waterfront" becomes a vibrant narrative, revitalizing Bernstein's score. This ballet is a testament to collaboration, illustrating the profound resonance achieved when two art forms unite in a shared vision of artistic innovation.
Depths Entangled
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Composer Venetian Snares
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Courtney Catalana, Ayaka Kamei, Xiaoxiao Cao, Rachel Thalman, Josh Beaver, Michael Holden, Daniel Powers, Nicholas Rose
About: In 2014, McEwen choreographed "Depths Entangled" for a six-dancer cast, later reimagined in 2018 for nine dancers and reshaped again for 8 in 2024. The piece artfully explores the intricate tapestry of human relationships. Through graceful movements, it delves into the connections we cultivate, intertwining emotions, thoughts, and personal growth. This ballet transcends conventional bonds, encompassing roles like student, teacher, neighbor, and stranger. With each step, "Depths Entangled" reveals the nuanced interplay of human connections. It serves as a poignant testament to relationships' impact on our lives, etching memories on our hearts and minds. Embark on a captivating journey through the intricacies of human experience, conveyed beautifully through the artistry of "Depths Entangled."
Composer Johann Sebastian Bach
Spoken Word Gloria Steinem, Harvey Milk, Malala Yousafzai, Josephine Baker, Mother Mary Teresa Bojaxhiu
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Emily Cardea, Lauren Treat, Claire Van Bever, Tevin Johnson, Christian Paris Blue, Jace Coronado, David Hochberg, Ethan Huffman
Humanism
About: "Humanism" breaks barriers to deliver profound impact. Inspired by Bach's melodies and civil rights speeches, this ballet harmonizes classical beauty with contemporary urgency. "Humanism" celebrates humanity's potential for progress, amplifying marginalized voices. McEwen's dedication to equity shines, weaving a movement language that transcends barriers. It explores race, gender, and the environment. With a desire for an equitable world, McEwen's process draws from every breath and creation's wonder. "Humanism" transforms dance into a force for change, inspiring action. The ballet combines music, dance, and activism, sparking dialogue and introspection. McEwen's choreography invokes empathy and a call to action. Through dance's universality, "Humanism" urges us to embrace shared humanity and strive for equity.
Albatross
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Composer Joshua Knowles
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Camila Rodrigues, Emily Cardea, Lauren Treat, Claire Van Bever, Tevin Johnson, David Hochberg, Dustin James, Joe LaLuzerne
About: Experience the transformative power of this work inspired by Chris Jordan's documentary "Albatross." This poignant performance brings to life the elegance of albatrosses, shedding light on the dire consequences of human mass consumption. With haunting imagery of plastic-filled chicks, the ballet becomes a call to action against global industry's impact on these vulnerable creatures. McEwen's choreography fosters empathy, urging us to protect our ecosystems as 15 albatross species face extinction and 90% of seabirds ingest plastic. Teaming up with composer Josh Knowles, the ballet's music intensifies the emotional resonance. By elevating these endangered birds, McEwen sparks actionable change, urging us to reshape our connection with the environment. This wake-up call emphasizes our duty as Earth's stewards, safeguarding its inhabitants and our planet's future.
Echoes of Silence
Composers: Randy Newman, Emitt Rhodes, Judee Sill, Elizabeth Cotten, Fred Neil, Mentor Williams, Stephen Stills
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Ayaka Kamei, Emily Cardea, Claire van Bever, Lauren Treat, Laura Perich, David Hochberg, Isaiah Newby, Joe LaLuzerne, Tevin Johnson
About: MorDance’s Echoes of Silence intertwines the emotional cadences of human connection and societal reflection, fusing dance and music into a deeply moving meditation on isolation, resilience, and the search for unity. longing, and the quiet strength of those often unheard. Set to a curated ensemble of songs including Sill’s Crayon Angels, Cotten’s When I Get Home, Randy Newman’s I Think It’s Going to Rain Today, and Lullaby by Emitt Rhodes. The ballet explores the shifting balance between solitude and connection, struggle and hope. Through intricate choreography and soulful music, Echoes of Silence invites audiences to reflect on the power of art to bridge divides, foster empathy, and illuminate our shared humanity. Through tonight’s layered presentation, Echoes of Silence challenges us to confront division while illuminating the strength of coming together.
Fats Waller’s Rhythm
Composer Fats Waller
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Ayaka Kamei, Kately Somers, Rachel Thalman, Daniel Powers, Ahmud Culver, Jose Carlos Losada, Kfir Danelli
About: "Fats Waller's Rhythm" is an exuberant ballet that pays homage to the legendary jazz pianist and composer, Fats Waller. Set to Waller's vibrant melodies, this work brilliantly captures the essence of the swing era, infusing it with contemporary flair. The dancers' infectious energy bring Waller's timeless tunes to life, creating a captivating fusion of movement and music. With choreography that effortlessly channels the rhythms of jazz, "Fats Waller's Rhythm" transports the audience to the vibrant world of the Harlem Renaissance. The ballet embodies the spirit of Waller's music, evoking the carefree and dynamic atmosphere of that era. This ballet is a jubilant celebration of jazz, dance, and cultural history, ensuring a toe-tapping, soul-stirring experience for all who witness it.
Encounters
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Composer Polina Nazaykinskaya
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Emily Cardea, Lauren Treat, Claire Van Bever, Christian Paris Blue, Jace Coronado, David Hochberg, Ethan Huffman
About: "Encounters" delves into intricate connections and life's contrast with death. Collaborating with composer Polina Nazaykinskaya and pianist Konstantin Soukhovetski, McEwen intertwines movement, music, and emotion seamlessly. "Encounters" sprouted from envisioning pianist Soukhovetski as an active choreographic participant. McEwen's personal experiences—loss of her grandmother and motherhood anticipation—fuels exploration of connections spanning life and beyond. The ballet captures this ethereal bridge, enriched by collaboration's fluidity. Nazaykinskaya's score harmonizes with McEwen's choreography, while Soukhovetski's piano elevates the piece's virtuosity.
The work fuses dancers and music beyond norms, emphasizing inseparable bonds through shared breaths. "Encounters" intertwines movement, music, and human connection, inviting contemplation of intersections. The ballet showcases collaboration's transformative potential, merging movement and music harmoniously.
Stabat Mater
Composer Arvo Pärt
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Courtney Catalana, Ayaka Kamei, Xiaoxiao Cao, Rachel Thalman, Josh Beaver, Michael Holden, Daniel Powers, Nicholas Rose
About: "Stabat Mater," dives into the universal realm of grief, loss, and communal suffering with profound depth and emotion. Drawing inspiration from the 13th-century hymn and accompanied by Arvo Pärt's haunting score, this work is crafted with meticulous choreography, lighting, and stage design, "Stabat Mater" envelopes the audience in a mesmerizing visual tapestry. Evolving lights and elevated structures craft ethereal silhouettes and fleeting movements, guiding viewers through a poignant odyssey. As the world grapples with ongoing challenges, "Stabat Mater" arrives with poignant relevance. In times of crisis, art becomes a compass through complex emotions. Through dance, this piece revitalizes the timeless hymn, offering contemplation on navigating grief and discovering solace amidst bleakness.
R+J Reimagined
Choreographer Morgan McEwen
Composer Sergei Prokofiev arrangement by Ben Galina
Lighting Design Becky McCarthy
Original Cast of Dance Artists
Amy Saunder, Courtney Catalan, Mary Kate Reynolds, Kennedy Rose, Julia Lipari, Jonatan Lujan, Hector Cerna, Joshua Bever, Josep Maria Monreal, Leo McGrath
About: "R+J Reimagined" takes Shakespeare's timeless tragedy to innovative heights. Through dynamic choreography and contemporary twists, the production revitalizes the classic tale of star-crossed lovers. Dancers breathe fresh life into iconic characters, infusing the narrative with emotional depth and modern relevance. The fusion of traditional and contemporary dance styles, coupled with a captivating soundtrack, offers a unique experience that bridges the gap between centuries. This reimagining captures the essence of love, conflict, and destiny in a way that resonates with today's audiences, making "Romeo and Juliet Reimagined" a compelling journey through the enduring power of love.