Sofian's "Secret Sky"

To knowledgeable fans of Oriental/Middle Eastern dance--and we are legion, although a marginal subset of dance followers--Anahid Sofian is one of the art's crown jewels. Veteran dancer, choreographer, artistic director and instructor, she has maintained a studio in New York since 1972, training some of the best in the business, and formed her company three decades ago. This artist remains, in a competitive, economically-challenged and always-changing field, not only a survivor but an exemplar.

Last evening, I had the privilege of watching Sofian perform a new suite of works--Toward A Secret Sky--sketches, improvisation, new choreography--at her small studio in the Flatiron District.

Sofian was joined by musicians Haig Manoukian (oud), Michael Hess (kanoun) and Shane Shanahan (percussion) who filled the interludes between her solos. I particularly enjoyed the sinuous chiming of Hess's lines and the unearthly sensitivity of Shanahan's pliant fingers flying and skittering over the skin of his drums. These interludes tended to be a tad moody and lulling, stretching the show out and draining the room's energy. A little of this trio would have gone a long way. But, then again, costume changes for a mainly one-woman show? A tricky situation!

Guest dancer Carlos Fittante--artistic director of BALAM Dance Theatre--partnered Sofian in an expressive duet in conventional modern dance style, executed to perfection. (This was an unexpected aesthetic swerve, but Sofian's early training included modern dance with Bella Lewitsky and Erick Hawkins.) But all other works on the program were short solos--some dramatic, some simply charming; folkish, trance-y, cabaret-like, solemn or ritualistic--set to an exciting range of recorded music and performed with Sofian's characteristic focus, refinement of carriage, precision of step and magical veilwork.

I remember when Sofian first sent word that she was planning this evening and mentioned that it might be the last time she'd present anything of this kind. I hope she has since changed her mind, and last night's admiring audience would surely agree.

More information: Anahid Sofian Studio