Meet the Company: Part 3

The identity of Peridance Contemporary Dance Company is shaped by original choreography, versatile dancers of diverse backgrounds, classical and contemporary accompaniment, and collaborations with live musicians. While upholding the elegance and articulation of classical ballet, Igal has structured the Company to explore and experiment with innovative movement and design. The Company, featuring 8 highly versatile dancers, has been rehearsing at Peridance Capezio Center for a few months now, in preparation for its upcoming debut performances.

Today's Featured dancer is Lauren Jaeger. Stayed tuned to learn about all of the dancers!

LAUREN JAEGER

Please tell us where you are from and something unique about your hometown!

I am from Poughquag, NY (near Poughkeepsie). My high school had over 4,000 students and has grown since.

What was one of your most memorable onstage or backstage moments?

After Jacquelyn Buglisi set Requiem on some of us at Marymount [Manhattan College] my freshman year, a couple of us were asked to perform the piece with the company at its benefit performance at the Baryshnikov Arts Center. I was thrilled! …It was the first time I was really exposed to such an extent to Jacquelyn Buglisi's and her dancers' beautiful artistry. I was honored… But [as] if that wasn't enough, Mikhail Baryshnikov was at our performance, watching ME perform! And, Desmond Richardson was a guest artist at the event. I was too embarrassed to ask Mr. Baryshnikov for his autograph but, since Desmond Richardson was backstage with us, I somehow worked up the courage to ask him. I will never forget his response, "Of course! Moments like these are like an ‘A+’ for dancers. You realize it really is attainable!"

How did you get into dance?

When I was 4, my mom asked if I wanted to dance and I said "ok." My first class took place the same day that we moved into our new house and the movers mistakenly packed the sneakers I was supposed to wear that day. The teacher told my mom I wasn't allowed to wear my ballet shoes outside. So my feet wouldn't touch the ground, my mom carried me from the car to the studio!

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not dancing?

I love science, especially astronomy and physics. So, I read a lot of science fiction. I also love to play Twister and ultimate Frisbee, and boogie boarding at the beach.

What are your go-to foods/drinks to get through a tough day of rehearsals and classes?

Water! Bananas, cereal bars, nuts, tea, and sometimes a sandwich.

Did your family play a strong role in guiding and supporting your career?

Yes. My mom always took jobs at the studio where I was enrolled, so that my sister and I could take as many classes as we wanted. Our brother was constantly dragged to our classes and performances. My grandmother never missed a performance until she passed away. I always think of her right before a performance.

What advice would you give to pre-professionals who are about to enter the professional world or to young dancers deciding if they want to make dance their future?

You need to REALLY want it. It's not easy; the work is hard and the financial compensation is not always equal to the amount of work you put in. I have six jobs right now: three company (dancing/performing) jobs and three teaching jobs. Juggling everything to make rent is challenging. However, if dancing is what you are passionate about and what you really want to do, than it's worth all the hard work and more. We are lucky that we get to do what we love for a living. Very few people can say that.

Who has been your most influential teacher or choreographer thus far? Please tell us a little about why!

Gina Chiavelli (my first ballet teacher) stressed the importance of focus and work ethic. She would always insist on … adhering to a strict dress code and complete attention in class. To this day, I still have a bun and wear tights and a leotard in every ballet class.

Around the age of 16, I had started thinking of alternate careers and college majors, but James Robey helped remind me that dance was something I was truly passionate about, not just an after-school activity.

While majoring in Dance at Marymount Manhattan College, there were periods when I would become so focused on perfecting an aspect of my technique that I would forget to dance and begin doubting myself. Luckily, Jean Emile, one of my ballet teachers, was there to remind me that technique, while important, wasn't everything. Jacquelyn Buglisi, Denise Vale, and Terese Capucilli have pushed me further than I thought possible. There's always more to give. Dance, for me, is not superficial. In Ms. Buglisi's work I am constantly challenged to make every moment truthful and real.

Adjusting to life after college can take a bit of time. Finding dance classes in which I felt comfortable and challenged, and that I could afford, took a while. I found exactly what I was looking for at Peridance Capezio Center. Igal Perry is a fantastic teacher and director who not only pushes you further, but also creates an atmosphere in which every student is encouraged to improve his own technique and experiment with new movement.

What are one or two things you must have in your dance bag?

A full water bottle.

Is there a place in the city you would recommend as a must see or must do (restaurant, café, park, gallery…)?

Ice skating in Central Park!!

Interview with Graciela Kozak

Interview with Graciela Kozak


Graciela Kozak was born in Argentina, and trained at the Teatro Colón of Buenos Aires. She danced with the Bat-Dor and Bat- Sheva companies in Israel, and the Peridance Ensemble in NY. She has performed works by Alvin Ailey, Paul Taylor, Jiri Kylian, Mark Morris, Igal Perry, Lar Lubovich, Donald McKayle and many other choreographers. Graciela joined the Peridance Faculty in 1985, and the faculty of the Ailey School in 2002. She has taught classes for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ailey II, Ballet Tech, Complexions, Donald Byrd, Pascal Rioult, the School of Ballet Hispanico and Ballett Akademien in Sweden. 

When did you start teaching? 

I began at the age of 15 in Argentina. I later moved to Israel, where I performed and taught for twelve years. I always knew that's what I wanted to do. I find   the process of learning and teaching fascinating. It is wonderful to see how dance has evolved in the 21st century, physically and artistically. Dancers have physically raised the bar to new standards, and there are new forms of dance emerging.

How long have you been at Peridance?

Almost 25 years. I have taught ballet classes, pointe workshops, and choreography workshops. I have also been teaching ballet classes at Alvin Ailey for the past seven years.

Can you expand on your dance background a little more? 

I have worked with some of the best choreographers of the 20th century, including our very own Igal Perry. Back in Israel I danced in Igal's first ballet, "Episode", which I thought was a masterpiece. I also worked with Alvin Ailey, Jiri Kylian, and Mark Morris, to name a few.

What types of students come to Peridance? 

The student body consists of dancers of all backgrounds. Dancers are both professionals, and aspiring professionals. Others, such as actors, journalists, lawyers and singers to name a few take dance class to complement their professional careers.

Anything else you would like people to know about Peridance? 

I have taught for the The School at Peridance and choreographed for the Peridance Youth Ensemble. I am proud that Peridance has grown to the proportions it is today and proud of the great teachers we have here. Some of our "babies" are now getting accepted to college dance programs and companies, a fact that serves as its own testament to the quality of our program.

APAP Artist Showcases at Peridance Capezio Center

Peridance Capezio Center is proud to present an exciting collective of dance companies in two programs during the 2012 Association of Performing Arts Presenters Conference (APAP) at its Salvatore Capezio Theater. 

Watch a trailer of Peridance's APAP Showcases 

APAP provides a unique and encompassing opportunity for artists to showcase their work in a platform that will put them in contact with arts presenters from across the globe.


With over 25 years of experience in the dance arena, a brand new theater, and a contemporary perspective, Peridance has carefully curated its programs to reflect the artistic excellence, creativity, diversity and audience appeal that presenters are 
looking for.

For more information check our website. Co Producer Yarden Ronen-van Heerden.

Meet the Company: Part 2

The identity of Peridance Contemporary Dance Company is shaped by original choreography, versatile dancers of diverse backgrounds, classical and contemporary accompaniment, and collaborations with live musicians. While upholding the elegance and articulation of classical ballet, Igal has structured the Company to explore and experiment with innovative movement and design. The Company, featuring 8 highly versatile dancers, has been rehearsing at Peridance Capezio Center for a few months now, in preparation for its upcoming debut performances.

Today's Featured dancer is Nikki Holck. Stayed tuned to learn about all of the dancers!

Nikki Holck

Please tell us where you are from and something unique about your hometown!

I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii for the most part, but I moved away when I was fourteen.  My family remained in the islands; since then I’ve returned home at least once a year.  Hawaii is a truly unique place.  When I was growing up my father always reminded me to look around and take in the beauty of my surroundings.  I listened, but never quite understood why he was so adamant about my recognizing this.  When I moved away, I was able to appreciate the special place that Hawaii is.  The culture, the gentle people, the serenity of the sea breeze, the majestic ocean, the luscious rainforests- how lucky I am to call this place home.

  

How did you get into dance?

My mom took me to see a local dance recital, and I remember the colorful costumes and most especially the young dancers moving with the music onstage.  I asked my mom if I could take ballet.  After a few years I hit an age where I thought that ballet wasn’t “cool.”  I wanted to take jazz and karate.  I wanted to sing.  I wanted to be an actress.  I quit dancing for a few years, and in that time it became clear that my life was somewhat empty without dance.  So I returned with a renewed energy, determined to become a professional dancer.

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not dancing?

There is a part of me that feels very attached to the ocean.  After moving away from Hawaii, the ocean, the sea breeze, the salty smell of the water - these beach elements are what I missed most.  Whenever I am home, I start my day with a walk in the sand, preferably just as the sun is rising.  It’s the most magical time of day - quiet anticipation of the endless possibilities of a new morning.  Water is an interesting creature; its constant motion and ever changing state are curiously exciting.  When I am in New York, my favorite thing to do when I am not dancing is to sit by the Hudson River with a book, notepad, and pen.  I walk along the water or find a nice place to sit and read and write.

What are your go-to foods/drinks to get through a tough day of rehearsals and classes?

Fresh fruits and dark chocolate.

Did your family play a strong role in guiding and supporting your career?

Absolutely.  I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for my family’s support and belief in me.  I am so blessed to have a family who believes that it is possible and beautiful to dedicate one’s life to the arts.

What advice would you give to pre-professionals who are about to enter the professional world or for young dancers deciding if they want to make dance their future?

Peridance's The Nutcracker (2010)

The most important qualities that I have learned from dancing have been dedication, determination, and perseverance.  I think that all young dancers whether or not they choose to make dance a part of their future should remember that the way they mentally approach each class or rehearsal can be more important than the actual physical “product” that results from the dancing that is done in those classes or rehearsals.  If you enter a room with focus, determined to learn and striving to give your best, you will leave feeling more satisfied and fulfilled.  More importantly, a focused practice - not being afraid to take risks and learn from mistakes, being present in each situation - will teach your body and mind the skills to become a powerful presence in any situation, be it dance or another profession.

What are one or two things you must have in your dance bag?

Biofreeze and my mini Thera-Roll foam roller.

Is there a place in the city you would recommend as a must see or must do (restaurant, café, park, gallery…)?

My favorite places in New York are the Hudson River Park, most especially the piers south of 14th street. The Guggenheim is another must see. One of my favorite restaurants is Westville East. Liquiteria on 11th Street and 2nd  Ave. is another one of my favorite places to hang out. 

Meet the Company!

Executive Director Yarden Ronen-van Heerden | Artistic Director Igal Perry 

I am sure many of you have heard that the Peridance Contemporary Dance Company is back in action and maybe you have even caught a glimpse of a rehearsal in studio 4. I want to take the opportunity to introduce the company to everyone! The company returns to the stage this season after a three-year hiatus while Peridance went through a major transition into its new home. Established in 1984, by Founder and Artistic Director Igal Perry. We are so excited, for the first time in the Company's history, to have a resident performance venue, our beautiful Salvatore Capezio Theater!

The identity of Peridance Contemporary Dance Company is shaped by original choreography, versatile dancers of diverse backgrounds, classical and contemporary accompaniment, and collaborations with live musicians. While upholding the elegance and articulation of classical ballet, Igal has structured the Company to explore and experiment with innovative movement and design. The Company, featuring 8 highly versatile dancers, has been rehearsing at Peridance Capezio Center for a few months now, in preparation for its upcoming debut performances.

Today's Featured dancer is Shay Bares. Stayed tuned to learn about all of the dancers!

SHAY BARES

Shay received his early training at The School of Ballet Tyler under Kym Lanier.  Through workshops, intensives, and conventions, he was exposed to diverse movement at an early age. In his youth, he was a member of Ballet Tyler, a local non-profit youth company, to which he returned for two seasons as Artistic Director.  In 2008, Shay joined the Fellowship program at the Alvin Ailey School.  Shay has danced with various modern, contemporary, ballet, and aerial companies including Kim Robards Dance, Peridance Ensemble, Steven Petronio Company, Basaran Dance Works, NY2 Dance, and Grounded Aerial.  Shay has taught at workshops and conventions across America, and has won overall awards at regional and national competitions.
 

Please tell us where you are from and something unique about your hometown!

I'm from Tyler, Texas.  It's the rose capital of the world!  Every rose in Tyler has a fairy in it, and every fairy will grant you one wish, but every wish has to be for more roses soooo...it's kind of a bummer.

What was one of your most memorable onstage or backstage moments?

My very first dance recital when I was nine years old; it was a disco jazz piece. We had Afro wigs, mine was big and green.  In my excitement, I over fluffed it and accidentally made it kind of loose. When it came time for the big headroll cannon, my big green wig went flying across the stage.  I danced across the stage, picked it up, and put it on backwards.  I finished the piece with the tails of the headband dangling in my eyes.  And scene!

How did you get into dance?

I started dancing at age nine when my Mom (who danced from [age] 3-18) suggested my older brother and I sign up. I thought this to be a horrible idea and that dance was only for girls. My big brother (only a year older but my idol) thought it would be fun, so I automatically decided dance was the best idea ever! After the first year I was hooked, and have been shakin’ it ever since. 

What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not dancing?

When I'm not dancing I am fashioning. I've been designing clothes since I was young, taught myself to sew last year, and have been avidly making clothes ever since. I've had work showcased in a film in Italy and other venues. I plan to make a dance work on my own incorporating the clothing I've made into a film. Exciting, right?!

What are your go-to foods/drinks to get through a tough day of rehearsals and classes?

My go-to foods and drinks to get through class are skittles and Dr. Pepper! Ok I'm kidding!  I usually drink coffee and eat tuna....I have great sympathy for my dance partner...coffee/tuna breath...yikes!  Oh and lots and lots of water!

Photo by Krista Bonura

Did your family play a strong role in guiding and supporting your career?

As I said before, my mother started me dancing and was extremely supportive.  My dad, however, was the driving force behind my dance career.  I got burnt out in my mid teens and tried several times to quit, but my dad said I wasn't giving up my God-given ability because I didn't feel like doing [it].  So Thankful for him! 

What advice would you give to pre-professionals who are about to enter the professional world or for young dancers deciding if they want to make dance their future?

My advice for young dancers or any dancer at all is: lose the ego.  No one wants to work with a dancer, no matter the talent level, if he thinks he’s Gods gift to dance. Be humble, pay attention, work hard, and encourage the dancers around you. We're all in this together and need each other’s support!

Who has been your most influential teacher or choreographer thus far? Please tell us a little about why!

Kym Lanier, my dance teacher at home in Texas. A petite, beautiful red headed woman with the business sense of a Wall Street mogul. She never let me get away with being lazy and taught me how to conduct myself in a professional manner. [I] owe her my career. 

What are one or two things you must have in your dance bag?

In my dance bag there are always lots of bobby pins (gotta keep up the glamour!) and multiple pairs of socks.  I feel most comfortable in socks but shred them like it's my job!

Is there a place in the city you would recommend as a must see or must do (restaurant, café, park, gallery…)?

My go-to place in the city?  I don't have one location to visit but adore being in Soho; the fashion is so inspiring and the people seem so creative. The street vendors with their original work are wonderful, and the hole-in-the-wall restaurants and coffee shops are so neat.  My other go-to place is my apartment in Harlem.  Come visit me and let's dance on my roof!