In the vibrant opening months of 2025, dance aficionados and art enthusiasts are set to experience an extraordinary series of performances in the picturesque Hamptons. The inaugural Dance Out East festival, organized in partnership with Works & Process, presents three unique choreographic works that offer a glimpse into the creative process behind these groundbreaking projects. Through residencies at iconic venues such as The Church in Sag Harbor, Guild Hall in East Hampton, and The Watermill Center, audiences will have the rare opportunity to witness the evolution of innovative dance pieces before they grace larger stages like the Guggenheim Museum’s Works & Process Underground Uptown Dance Festival.
A Trio of Trailblazing Performances Unveiled on Long Island's East End
In the charming town of Sag Harbor, dancer Emily Coates premieres The Scattering, a thought-provoking piece that delves into the enduring influence of George Balanchine on American dance. Performed at The Church in Sag Harbor on January 9th, this work combines archival elements with contemporary storytelling, creating a poignant tribute to Balanchine’s legacy. Coates collaborates with director Ain Gordon, performer Derek Lucci, musician Charles Burnham, and pianist Melvin Chen, bringing together diverse artistic disciplines in a setting that resonates with historical significance.
On January 10th, Guild Hall in East Hampton hosts House Is Open, Going Dark, a high-energy fusion of tap dance and live music by Gregory Richardson and Leonardo Sandoval. This performance blurs the lines between dance, concert, and musical theater, celebrating the rich heritage of tap within the African diaspora. Through a blend of Afro-Brazilian, jazz, soul, and other genres, the duo explores the intersection of rhythm and movement, culminating in a dynamic residency at Guild Hall’s Hillarie and Mitchell Morgan Theater.
The following day, The Watermill Center welcomes Djapo, a collaboration between West African dance icon Marie Basse-Wiles and her son Omari Wiles. This performance bridges traditional West African dance with modern interpretations, including elements of Afro Club Culture and Vogue. Featuring dancers from the Maimouna Keita School of African Dance and Les Ballet Afrik, Djapo honors the past while pushing boundaries, offering a thrilling preview of a work that continues to evolve and expand upon the African dance tradition.
These performances not only showcase the diversity and richness of contemporary dance but also highlight the importance of cultural exchange and innovation. They provide a platform for emerging artists to explore new frontiers, reminding us of the power of art to connect and inspire across generations and geographies.
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