An Exploration of Transformation and Empowerment Through Dance (2025)

Artistic Direction
Choreographer & Director
Alison Cook-Beatty, Artistic Director Alison Cook Beatty Dance (ACBD)
(A Nonprofit Organization, NYC)

Featured Dancers:
– Eliza: Ioanna Ioannides
– Supporting Dancers:
– Maddie Burnett
– Ava Trochiano

Musical Selections:
– Introduction: “The Hours” by Philip Glass
– Eliza’s Struggle: “Experience” by Ludovico Einaudi
– Introduction of Transformation: Score from *The Piano* by Michael Nyman
– Climax/Resolution: “Arrival of the Birds” by The Cinematic Orchestra

Visual Elements:
Puppet Creators:
– Dan Potter
– Alison Cook-Beatty
Assistant Puppet Creator:
-Dan Cook

Date of Performance:
March 9, 2025
Venue:
Hygienic Art Gallery, New London

Curated by:
The Dragon’s Egg

The New Work In Progress opens with an Introduction, set to the evocative sounds of Philip Glass’s “The Hours”, Eliza danced by Core Company Dancer of Alison Cook Beatty Dance (ACBD), Ioanna Ioannides, takes center stage, flanked by two dancers, Maddie Burnett and Ava Trochiano, also members of ACBD, representing societal pressures, with contrasting movements that establish a tension between her aspirations and the constraints imposed by her environment.
Progressing into Eliza’s Struggle, the emotional tone shifts to Ludovico Einaudi’s “Experience”, where Eliza’s longing is expressed through grounded and hesitant choreography. The interactivity among the dancers reveals her internal conflict, illustrating moments of support that are often overshadowed by societal expectations.
With the “Introduction of Transformation”, Eliza’s growth is highlighted through Michael Nyman’s score from The Piano, showcasing her evolution into a more refined being. Mirroring movements between Eliza and the supporting dancers serve to symbolize encouragement and mentorship.
The piece culminates in a powerful Climax/Resolution with uplifting music such as Arrival of the Birds by The Cinematic Orchestra. Here, Eliza’s newfound confidence shines through in synchronized movements that express solidarity, culminating in a striking tableau that reflects her journey of empowerment and growth, emphasizing the themes of transformation and support in a poignant and visually arresting manner.
***Bird puppets created by Dan Potter and Alison Cook-Beatty will be incorporated into the piece.