"Balance" is a dance performance developed by Chapman Dance inspired by seniors from the Fonteno Senior Education Center. Artistic Director Teresa Chapman explores various states of balance by using the process of memory retrieval as a launching pad for her choreography.
The concept for "Balance" originated in the fall of 2015 as Chapman began working with seniors at Fonteno Senior Education Center on a series of balance workshops designed to enhance physical stability through creative movement. The classes, which focus specifically on balance work for seniors through creative dance. The workshops include dance “games” that challenge and reorganize habitual movement patterns for greater efficiency and heightened kinesthetic awareness. These explorations sparked the inspiration for "Balance". “As I watch these non-dancers experience the pure joy of dancing through a guided practice, I am reminded of the reasons why I chose a life in dance. I was moved to create a work where their passion and personalities could be a part my work.” The process of memory retrieval and sensory memories themselves are at the heart of the choreography. With the use of expansive movement and intimate gesture, Chapman interprets sensory memories to create a lush and abstract landscape. Chapman Dance members include Jacquelyne Boe, Roberta Paixao Cortes, Kristen Frankiewicz, Kelsey Gibbs, Alexandre Soares, and Brit Wallis with three guest performers from Fonteno Senior Education Center.
This project is funded in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.
Pre-sale tickets are $20 adults, $15 students and seniors. Tickets: $22 at the door. For more information, visit chapmandance.com.
Teresa Chapman is an Associate Professor at the University of Houston where she teaches dance technique, aesthetics, dance kinesiology, and pedagogy. Her work has been presented at DiverseWorks Art Space, Miller Outdoor Theatre, Moore’s Opera House, The Barn Theater, the Contemporary Art Museum Houston, Wade Wilson Gallery, the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center, and the Cunningham Studios in New York City.
Jim and JoAnne Fonteno Senior Education Center is located at 6600 Bissonnet Street in Houston. Fonteno offers ongoing classes taught by volunteers and professionals. Classes range from computer programming to yoga, fitness and dance. These classes are free and offered to all Harris County citizens over the age of 55. The Fonteno Senior Education Center is supported by Commissioner Steve Radack and Harris County Precinct 3.
