Parsons Dance January 26, 2011

Parsons Dance returns to The Joyce Theater from January 26 – February 6, 2011, with three programs including three World Premieres, two new pieces by David Parsons and one by Monica Bill Barnes. Program C is a family-friendly afternoon for audiences of all ages. All three programs include David Parsons’ stroboscopic masterwork "Caught". The Joyce Theater is located at 175 Eighth Avenue (at 19th Street), NYC. Tickets begin at $10 and are available by phone at 212-242-0800 or joyce.org.

Parsons Dance will present the World Premiere of David Parsons’ newest duet, "Portinari", inspired by the acclaimed Brazilian painter, muralist and political activist, Candido Portinari. Portinari created two 46-foot tall murals titled “War” and “Peace” for the United Nations General Assembly Building.  They were donated by the Brazilian government and first displayed at the U.N. in 1957. When delegates enter the building, they see “War.” As they exit, they see “Peace.” The murals took more than four years to complete.  In 1962, Portinari died at the age of 58, of poisoning from the lead-based paints with which he worked. The piece will be danced by Miguel Quinones, portraying the artist himself, and Sarah Braverman as his canvas and his muse. Parsons Dance will also present a second, as-yet-untitled, World Premiere piece by David Parsons, a reflection on the human traits of positivity and negativity, a group piece set to the music of Steely Dan.

Choreographer Monica Bill Barnes was commissioned by Parsons Dance to create an ensemble piece for the company. "Love, oh Love", which incorporates details from everyday life, features music by Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie and Diana Ross.  Barnes makes brazen, full blown dances interlaced with allusions to pop-culture and high drama.  Fascinated by the moment when the glorious meets the ridiculous, her work celebrates individuality and humor.  Lighting design is by Howell Binkley. Costume design is by Kelly Hanson.

Dancers: Eric Bourne, Sarah Braverman, Elena D’Amario, Abby Silva Gavezzoli, Christina Ilisije, Jason MacDonald, Miguel Quinones, Ian Spring, Melissa Ullom, and Steven Vaughn

Program A:
Wednesday, January 26 at 7:30pm; Saturday, January 29 at 8pm; Wednesday, February 2 at 7:30pm; Thursday, February 3 at 8pm; Saturday, February 5 at 8pm; and Sunday, February 6 at 7:30 pm;
"The Envelope", "Sleep Study", "Mood Swing", "Portinari", "Caught", World Premiere of David Parson’s new group piece

Program B:
Thursday, January 27 at 8pm; Friday, January 28 at 8pm; Sunday, January 30 at 7:30pm; Tuesday, February 1 at 7:30pm; Friday, February 4 at 8pm
"Bachiana"; "Portinari"; "Slow Dance"; World Premiere of "Love, oh Love"; "Caught"; "Nascimento"

Program C:
Saturday, January 29 at 2pm; Sunday, January 30 at 2pm; Saturday, February 5 at 2pm; Sunday February 6 at 2pm
"The Envelope"; "Sleep Study"; "Hand Dance"; World Premiere of "Love, oh Love"; World Premiere of David Parson’s new group piece; "Caught"