Creativity Soars in "Flight of the Heart" Design

03/20/15

In the spirit of spring, Ithaca College’s dance concert “Flight of the Heart” will bring forth a tangible touch of nature with the creation of an original costume. This costume entails a handcrafted tree attached to a specially designed dress that a dancer will wear in the performance of a modern dance piece. Choreographed by Department of Theatre Arts assistant professor Lindsay Gilmour, the dance piece, titled “Tiny Rebellions”, is an exploration of the tiny rebellions humans face, such as myth over logic, and femininity over masculinity, in an attempt to create balance instead of control.

"Tiny Rebellions" is one of three original pieces being offered in Dillingham Center's dance concert. Performances begin March 24.

“I loved the idea of nature overtaking the theater and of the feminine being an expression of nature,” said Gilmour, regarding the tree’s role in the performance.

The creation of this art fell into the hands of costume designer Rebecca Dwight ’16, who designed the tree, and collaborated with scenic designer Tyler Hampton ’15. According to Dwight, the formation began when Gilmour expressed that she simply wanted a tree on stage. From here, the concept passed through many hands and forms before it was constructed into what is presently a 10-foot tree on a 35-foot dress train. In order to craft and customize the work, this undertaking employed all areas of the department, ranging from carpentry to scenic design.

Both Gilmour and Dwight anticipate that the audience will be initially surprised when the tree train emerges onto the stage, but surprise will quickly turn into awe.

“I think as it plants itself on stage it should really reflect this natural being and this natural environmental world that hopefully the audience will understand,” said Dwight.

You may see this art work in motion, as “Flight of the Heart” will perform in the Hoerner Theatre in Dillingham Center on March 24, 26, 27, and 28 at 8 p.m., with 2 p.m. matinées offered on March 28 and 29.

Ticket prices for “Flight of the Heart” range from $8 to $16, and can be purchased online at ithaca.ticketforce.com and through the Ithaca College box office located in Dillingham Center. The box office is open Monday through Thursday from noon-5 p.m. and Friday noon-4 p.m. Tickets may be purchased by calling (607) 274-3224.

Dillingham Center accommodates all patrons. Individuals with special needs are asked to contact (607) 274-3224 to request accommodations as soon as possible.

0 Comments

https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20150320172513222