Human Interaction
At a time when so many of us are social distancing, it can be reassuring (and a little shocking) to see people touching each other—even when it’s onscreen. The human interactions seen in these videos remind us that dance is an intensely physical art form which celebrates our connections with each other, a theme also explored in a related playlist.
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Trey McIntyre
Less Amor, 2019
Though he disbanded his company in 2014, Trey McIntyre continues to create virtuosic movement like nobody else—as evidenced by this one-time-only performance at the Season Opening Gala this past year.
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Ice Dance International
In Flight, 2019
Who would have ever thought that ice dancing could take place at a summer dance festival? Ice Dance International proved that it’s possible, and it’s fascinating to watch the shifting dynamics of these four performers as they glide through the Perles Family Studio.
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LAFA & Artists
Summer Fantasia Part I, 2009
The imaginative illusion of floating in water was a high point in the U.S. debut engagement by this Taiwan-based company, showcasing the talents of Fang-Yi Sheu.
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Buglisi/Foreman Dance
...ING from Field of Loves, 2001
This rapturous and playful duet from Buglisi/Foreman’s Pillow debut pairs co-founder Donlin Foreman with Terese Capucilli, a former Pillow student who went on to become a leading light of the Martha Graham Dance Company.
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Avila/Weeks Dance
The Dream of Heod and Miesra, 1995
They don’t physically connect until late in this particular excerpt, but Homer Avila and Edisa Weeks are inextricably linked throughout—as both co-choreographers and dance partners.
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Gregory Hines, Dianne Walker, Jimmy Slyde
Gala Performance, 1996
To watch these three tap icons working together side-by-side is pure joy—and a case study in how to stay connected.
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Eiko & Koma
Passage, 1994
The long personal and professional partnership of Eiko and Koma provides its own example of connectivity, especially as seen in this sequence where they never lose contact with each other.
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Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Nine Sinatra Songs, 1993
Twyla Tharp explored a darker side of partnership in this classic duet—with a jaw-dropping catch at the very end.
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Merrill Ashley & John Meehan
Pas de deux from Agon, 1987
Watch how Balanchine explores endless ways to keep these two dancers connected to each other—even as one dancer lies on his back with his partner looming over him.
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Pilobolus Dance Theatre
Ciona, 1987
The organic entanglements devised by Pilobolus were part of the company’s earliest works, exploiting the gymnastic skills of its founders and establishing a genre still thriving today.
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Paul Taylor Dance Company
Airs, 1982
This duet is a masterful marvel—exhibiting the Taylor dancers’ clear virtuosity while making it all appear effortless.
Explore Playlists
National Ballet of Canada
Lilac Garden (Jardin aux Lilas), 1953
Repressed sexuality was a common theme for Antony Tudor, as clearly seen in this furtive meeting between the ballet’s heroine and her true love on the eve of her wedding to “The Man She Must Marry.”