A new work exploring movement and sound
Irish Modern Dance Theatre returns to Dance Limerick presenting ´Begin Anywhere´, a new work by Irish choreographer John Scott and composer Mel Mercier, a former UL Professor.
Taking place on Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9 at 7.30 pm, this premiere, commissioned by the Irish Arts Center, draws from the artistic philosophies of legendary choreographer Merce Cunningham and composer John Cage.
A tribute to Cunningham and Cage
Scott, a leading figure in Irish contemporary dance, has long engaged with the Merce Cunningham Dance Company, and this latest work reflects that connection. Mercier, a Tony-nominated composer and sound designer, brings his own history to the piece, having performed in Cage and Cunningham’s Roaratorio.
This premiere will be accompanied by an excerpt of Four Solos by Merce Cunningham, featuring an arrangement of Cunningham’s works: Changeling (1957), Solo (1975), and an excerpted solo from RainForest (1968). These solos, performed in a continuous dance event, will be set to music by John King.
Choreography by John Scott; picture by Patricio Cassinoni
An exploration of dance and sound
The performance features a cast of dancers and musicians, with lighting design by Joe Levasseur and costumes by Gabriel Berry. The soundscore incorporates voices from former members of the Merce Cunningham Dance Company, alongside a dancer from the Merce Cunningham Trust.
Begin Anywhere is going to be an exploration of movement, sound, and artistic legacy, offering audiences a glimpse into the creative lineage of Cunningham and Cage through the voices of John Scott and Mel Mercier.