Based on a practice developed by dance artist Jennifer Lacey (NYC/Paris), Psychic Choreography examines modes of transmission through methods of scoring improvised dance and the tensile presence that demands. The piece is rehearsed separately by the collaborating artists and is assembled fully only in the moment of performance. Remaining in the repetitive state of a premiere, Psychic Choreography exists in the gaps between body and gesture, idea and intent, language and choreography, audience and performer, dance and an established sector of production.

“Leary and Alaoui take turns in the spotlight, their respective talents easily highlighted. For example, Leary has a section where she uses the aerial rope for a beautiful little moment of eerie suspension. In contrast, Alaoui’s vocal improvisation and her incredible movement frame several of the speaking segments, constantly drawing the eye and the ear. And together they are hilarious, using the spoken segments to deliver some unexpected comments on their work.”

-Madeleine Copp, Mooney On Theatre

Year: 2015, 2014

Venue: Theatre Passe Muraille (2015), Collective Space (2014)

Choreography: Brandy Leary and Meryem Alaoui (2015), Brandy Leary and Laura Stokes (2014)

Composition: James Bunton + found sound

Dance Artists: Brandy Leary, Meryem Alaoui (2015), Laura Stokes (2014)

Curator/Presenter: SummerWorks (2015) Curator: Amelia Erhardt, Contemporary Circus Festival of Toronto (2014)

Photos: Eamon Mac Mahon, video stills courtesy ĀNANDAṀ