CU Theatre & Dance continues its 2015-16 season with "The Otherland," an MFA dance concert created by Bailey Anderson and Rosely Conz. Their show—which runs Oct. 16-18 at the Charlotte York Irey Dance Theatre on the CU-Boulder campus—explores through contemporary dance what it means to be a stranger in one’s everyday world.Ěý
"I was inspired to do this show after creating a solo exploring my own relationship with words and language," said Anderson of the immersive work replete with intimate physicality and rich imagery. "Remembering my adolescence—and the sense of searching, feeling lost and trying to make sense out of language—led to this work."Ěý
"The Otherland" is further influenced by Anderson’s interest in concepts of disability, as well as the intersection between academia and dance.
"I was really excited when Rosely Conz suggested partnering on this work," said Anderson. "Her research focuses on how marginalized populations can learn to upend systems of oppression and discrimination."Ěý
Conz’s inspiration for "The Otherland" also draws on her personal experiences as a Brazilian living abroad.
"I learned what it’s like being a foreigner—the difficulties, surprises and disorientation," said Conz. "It’s been a huge learning process about humanness and acceptance."Ěý
Adds Conz, "Foreignness and disability are in the realm of otherness and marginalization. We started asking questions about how to deal with such complicated themes through dance. At a time in history when when we see people drowning or dying in the back of trucks in their attempts to have a better life, how do art and dance 'talk' about these subjects?"
Conz and Anderson hope their work prompts audiences to engage in the post-show talkbacks.
"I hope our audiences leave not feeling pity for anyone," said Anderson. "I hope they come away from this show talking to each other."Ěý
Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16; 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17; and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18. Tickets for “The Otherland” start at $14.
See for more information and to purchase tickets.
