MegLouise Dance presents original works choreographed by artistic director Megan Pitcher and guests. As striking as they are thought provoking, these dances share a human tenderness and a craving for personal connection. Some are decorated with layers of artistry, while others are stripped to the bones of pure movement. We are constantly creating new works, while trying not to let the good ones go.
Below is a selected list of MegLouise Dance works. They are suitable for a variety of audiences, both young and old. All can be produced with limited technical requirements. Several could be performed in a school class period. They cover a range of themes.
Nearly Nude (2008)
We reveal the human body in motion and invite you to reconnect with flesh. See our bodies through your eyes, through our minds and through society's expectations. The company performs pieces addressing our mixed influences: femininity, beauty, passion, sexuality, control and obsession. Some pieces are filled with freedom and indulgence. Other dances remind us of the frailty we feel when stripped of our clothing shields. Discover what real people look like when they are not trying to look as you expect. Decide how you feel about the images presented. (approx. 45 min)
Companions (2008)
Imagine yourself in the parlor of a not so starving artist. Your host surrounds herself with talented friends and graciously invites you to enjoy their company. Artists can be a dramatic bunch, but they are loyal to a fault. Enjoy this salon experience filled with art song by JR Fralick and Amy Christina Hall accompanied by original dance selections. Special thanks to Cleveland Public Theatre's Big Box Series for supporting the development of this new multi disciplined work. (40 - 80 min)
iNput (2007)
Are you seeking peace, passion or success? What stands in your way? Are you on the right course? Many of us experience feelings of fear and doubt as we struggle to be true and honest in our lives. Does that make us weak? An ensemble cast explores those questions in an atmosphere of intimacy and hope. Watch as they share their fears. Join them on their journey and see how everyone can affect and be affected by the world around them. This intimate experience challenges preconceived ideas of dance and encourages audiences to be actively engaged in the tender work being presented. (approx. 45 min)
Dance Choice (2007)
First performed by a group of 12 dancers at the Cleveland Public Theatre (Cleveland, OH), this work invites audience members to choose what they want to see. Everyone is given a "dance menu" that includes a "mix and match" section, a section of "house specials," a selection of soloists and a space for audience members to write in their ideas for a dance. Lucky audience members get to see their choices performed live, on the spot. The sky is the limit! (30 - 60 min)
Nothing Too Bad Ever Happened (2007)
The interrelationships of six women are highlighted as they navigate life's choices and unpleasant consequences. The choreography is framed by a series of questions posed to the audience as video projections. Audience members determine the outcome of the events by "voting" at three critical points as in the once popular "choose your own adventure" novels. Their choices determine what selections the dancers perform. (30 - 40 min)
Running on Empty Fairy Tales (2005)
A serious of dreamlike sequences highlights the thin line between fantasy and reality. The performance includes stylized movement, minimal set pieces, curious props and a creative sound score to support the adventures of several disillusioned and disoriented young women. (45 min)
A Dairy (2004)
Megan Pitcher created this piece after working as an AmeriCorps Fellow in West Michigan. It incorporates the thoughts, ideas and questions of the teens and children involved in those programs. It was performed by 12 professional dancers and 5 community members. The dance looks at how we deal with the struggle of growing up, at any age. (30 min)
MegLouise Dance is often commissioned to create new works for schools, festivals and other performances. Below is a selected list of past projects.
Know This Place (2008)
Shaker Heights High School Ensemble Program
Interactive Movement Exhibit (2007)
Ingenuity Festival
Free Trade Movement (2007)
Walk & Roll Festival, Cleveland Public Theatre
Every Girl's Rite (2007)
Presented by Hathaway Brown
Feet Music (2005)
Presented by Richland Academy
Suite Billy (2005)
Presented by The Renaissance Theater
Ruled The World (2004)
Community Action for Capable Youth After School Program
A Las Doce Menos Diez (2004)
Friendly House After School Program
Cadencial Groovement (2002)
Presented by Fort Hayes High School