The Three Women Project by TU Dance
The 3-Women Project will feature choreographic works from a group of three internationally renowned black female artists, Stephanie Batten Bland, Alanna Morris, and Yusha-Marie Sorzano.
The project will incorporate educational opportunities and culminate in live, in-person performances:
Friday May 12 and Saturday May 13, 2023 at The O’Shaughnessy in St. Paul, Minnesota.
From left to right: Yusha Sorzano by Eric Politzer; Alanna Morris by Canaan Mattson; and Stephanie Batten Bland by Christiaan Felber
Reflections post premiere…
In a 3:24 min video (w/closed captions) Alanna reflects on her experience premiering Pẹ̀lẹ́ Pẹ̀lẹ́! and her creative ambitions.
Video compilation made on Alanna’s iphone of rehearsals from weeks 1 & 2 of the creative process at the TU Dance Center
Pẹ̀lẹ́ Pẹ̀lẹ́! is a deep dive through the depths of ourselves through Self study and observance. We invite a practice of internal softness/rigor that is then manifested in our relationships with others and with Spirit.
“Pẹ̀lẹ́” is a common Yorùbá phrase that can mean something like, “sorry” or “condolences” after experiencing an accident or a loss. More deeply, however, this phrase connotes a wish for someone to go easy and gently on themselves when experiencing discomfort or pain.
It is my prayer to cultivate a life that is the embodiment of this value, both within myself and my relationship with others.
Thanks to Toni Pierce-Sands and Laurel Keen!
Dancers:
Gabrielle Abram
Mikaela Brandon
Sa’Nah Britt
Laren Chang
Morgan Cogley
Suzette Gilreath
Kaitlyn Hawkins
Samantha Meryhew
Anna Pinault
Keri Prokopidis
Elliana Vesley
