Art in Motion

My admiration for the visual arts is well documented on this blog, but I also love the performing arts. Last Friday night I was lucky enough to catch a performance of BJM Danse Montreal (formerly known as Les Ballets Jazz des Montreal) at the gorgeous venue that is Merrill Auditorium.

Two acts comprised the night's performance: MAPA and Les Chambres des Jacques.

MAPA is a whirlwind of color and rhythm. Set against a simple backdrop, with the dancers in monochromatic costumes, MAPA blends traditional Brazilian movements with contemporary dance and ballet. Choreographed by Rodrigo
Paderneiras, MAPA emphasizes the movements of the dancers.

Les Chambres des Jacques is a humorous interpretation of the mundane moments that make up our daily lives. I thought the costumes for this act were very well done: the women in outfits that bear resemblance to the elaborate undergarments of the 18th century, all corsets and pantaloons, with the men in shirtsleeves and waistcoats. The music was very eclectic as well, ranging from Vivaldi to Polish Klezmer.

Aszure Barton, who choreographed the Les Chambres des Jacques in collaboration with the dancers, integrated the personal habits and styles of the dancers into the piece.

The company's pared down style, free of pretension, is refreshing and intriguing. Their unique approach to dance is perfectly highlighted by simple staging and costumes: nothing distracted from the sheer artistry of the human body, and the athleticism of the performers. It was truly art in motion.