Solo in Queens

Yesterday, I attended Dance in Queens 2010: Solo Flight--a showing of works-in-progress developed at TOPAZ ARTS in partnership with the Queens Museum of Art. Hosted and introduced by TA's co-director Paz Tanjuaquio, the program featured solos choreographed by Dina-Verley Sabb-Mills, Ursula Eagly (danced by marvelous Lindsey Dietz Marchant) and Daniel Charon.

I won't review these unfinished pieces. (Charon considers his dreamy This Much I Do Remember "fairly finished, because in my life, I like to move on to other things.") But I will say that the entire event, including the Q&A, was gracious and enjoyable.  And I do want to introduce you to an interesting artist who was new to me. 

Dina-Verley Sabb-Mills, from Philadelphia, is an MFA graduate of Temple University. Her piece--A (happy) Life, set to music by Corrine Bailey Rae, Kanye West and Miles Davis--calls to mind something of the stylish stage presence, agility and vigor of Camille A. Brown but with an insightful psychological honesty and vulnerability that's all her own. Sabb-Mills demonstrates the near-impossible juggling act of coping with trauma while trying to live one's public life, putting on the public face day after day. Made after a period of grief, demanding change and disconnection from her dancing, this solo is really one hell of a way to come back. It represents a personal turning point, for sure, but if it also hints at the strengths she will bring out in the future, then keep watch. Here's her website and schedule of upcoming gigs.