BODYTRAFFIC is a world-class dance company that pushes the limits of choreogrpahy and is redefining the contemporary genre. We asked them 10 questions to understand their unique company a little better.
1. What inspired the creation of BODYTRAFFIC?
Tina and I were both transplants from New York and wanted to continue our performing careers in Los Angeles. The type of contemporary work we were interested in dancing did not exist in L.A. at that time, so we started BODYTRAFFIC as a vehicle for us to fulfill our dancing aspirations.
2. How does your work connect to the larger world?
BODYTRAFFIC performs for diverse audiences all over the globe and customizes outreach experiences for all demographics. Additionally, we have strong presence on the web through our own website and social media.
3. What is a typical rehearsal and/or performance day like?
Five or six days of the week we typically start with company class (usually ballet, but occasionally Counter-technique or yoga) at 10am, rehearse for two hours, take lunch for an hour and then resume rehearsal for 2-3 more hours.
4. What moves the company to create a new project (e.g.: a musical piece, life experience or specific choreographer)?
A lot of research, fundraising and planning goes into each commission that Tina and I embark upon. There are some common components like choosing choreographers with distinctive voices who will challenge our dancers in a way that will cause technical, artistic and personal growth.
5. How do you manage to push the boundaries of dance while staying grounded in your exquisite technique?
Years of diligent training is required for our dancers to acquire their technique. Daily company class is a way for each of them to maintain their technique. When they are working with a choreographer, they try to embody the new physical language as authentically as possible. Tina and I are fortunate to work with such talented, brave, kind and generous dancers.
6. What is the best advice that you have been given?
Breathe, stay present and think about what you want so that you can create what you value.
7. Pick 5 words – that start with the letter 'B' – that best describe BODYTRAFFIC.
Bold. Beautiful. Breathtaking. Bodacious. Bighearted.
8. How was the name BODYTRAFFIC chosen?
Tina and I wanted something unique that would stick in people’s minds. We made a list of words that were evocative of dance and a second list of words that were evocative of Los Angeles. BODYTRAFFIC, like our brand, is bold and speaks of our city. Anyone who has driven the 405, understands the name of our company immediately!
9. Whom do you define as a visionary?
To me, a visionary is someone who despite the odds that may be against them creates something new that has a great and lasting impact.
10. What do you hope the audience will take away from tonight's performance?
I hope that our work and our dancers move the audience in a way that they leave touched and enlivened.
BODYTRAFFIC will be at WAC March 2, 2017, at 7pm. Tickets are $10. Don't miss out!