Date of Award

5-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

College/School

College of the Arts

Department/Program

Theatre and Dance

Thesis Sponsor/Dissertation Chair/Project Chair

Maxine Steinman

Committee Member

Emmanuèle Phuon

Committee Member

Susan GaddyPope

Abstract

Threads: A Dance Dialogue of Love and Longing, an MFA thesis film, narrates the story of two individuals from China and Panamá, longing to unite but separated by continents and oceans. This film symbolizes my profound connection with Panamá and China, countries that have significantly shaped my journey as a dance artist. Showcasing Ilda Mason from Panamá and Jason Sheng (张胜) from China, the film features improvised dances in various locations, inspired by the modernist Panamanian poem “La Última Gaviota” by Ricardo Miró and the ancient Chinese poem “Conversation Among Mountains” by Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai. The poetry and the environment serve as catalysts for spontaneous movement, with the unpredictability of the dance sequences, the rhythm and emotions of the poems, and the unique responses of each dancer shaping the film’s direction and impact. The film, which premiered virtually on April 14, 2024, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration. Each collaborator, including the dancers, cinematographers, editor, musical composer, and English translator, added a unique layer to the final product, surpassing what could have been achieved individually. This document delves into research that informs this project, including the history of improvisational dance, an examination of the symbiotic relationship between dance and poetry, and an analysis of the featured poems in the film. Additionally, it discusses the film-making methodology, my creative interactions with the collaborators, and the potential implications of this film for future projects.

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