“Ten Tiny Dances,” the Twitter of Dance Shows

Seattle choreographer Crispin Spaeth gives audiences big fun with diminutive modern dance.

By Seattle Mag January 13, 2011

This article originally appeared in the February 2011 issue of Seattle magazine.

As artists know, constraints imposed upon creative work may seem initially frustrating but often turn out to be the very thing that inspires genius. Such is the premise of “Ten Tiny Dances,” a concept originated by Portland choreographer Mike Barber and replicated by Seattle choreographer Crispin Spaeth. In this case, participating dancers are bound by constraints of both time and space—no piece can run longer than eight minutes, and all performances must take place on a 4-by-4-foot raised wooden platform in the round. For this year’s Seattle edition, Spaeth added a thematic constraint: Valentine’s Day (expect “dynamic” interpretations). Choreographers in the all-star local lineup include Donald Byrd, Dayna Hanson, Haruko Nishimura, Salt Horse and Sandstrommovement, as well as Spaeth and Barber. Prepare for big fun with diminutive modern dance. 2/11–2/13. 8 p.m. $18–$22. Velocity Dance Center, 1621 12th Ave., Suite 100; 206.325.8773; velocitydancecenter.org.

 

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