Dance Makers 2023 Program

FROM THE FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
In our seventeen years, Sarasota Contemporary Dance has continued making itself
a profound force in the Sarasota Community. When we have faced adversity, our
grit and passion pushed us forward. Now, we propel into this season fueled to rise
to a new level as a company, reclaiming the stage, stories, and spirit of SCD in a
performance season devoted to empowerment, collaboration, and forward motion.
As someone who believes in the power of prayer, family, and dance, I understand
the importance of renewing your perspective. That is exactly what we are doing this
season: reevaluating what was, and shaping it into something stronger. This means
restoring our bodies, our minds, our souls, and reclaiming all of it for the sake of
growing and furthering ourselves as artists and as an organization.
All of this, brings a new energy to this season’s Main Stage lineup. Launching
this remarkable season is a dedication to the Voices of the next generation of
choreographers, with more artists being presented than ever before. This year’s range
of work reinforces SCD’s heart of nurturing artists in various stages and we aim to
provide a performance platform that empowers these choreographers. We then kick
off December with a live music collaboration with Samantha Bennett and George
Nickson of enSRQ. Reinforcing our position as a collaborative force in Sarasota, this
program explores rhythms from around the world along with St. Petersburg based
multidisciplinary artist, Sharon McCaman. Roaring us into 2023 is “Dance Makers,”
bringing a wide range of works from jazz to Afro-Cuban, all created by nationally
acclaimed contemporary choreographers. And as a compelling finale to close the
season, SCD’s striking work of “Jehanne” returns to the stage. Accompanied by live
music and original composition by Mark Dancingers, this performance reflects on
Joan of Arc’s strength and faith that carried her forward.
These offerings continue to incite our spirited vision: being a versatile contemporary
dance company and training ground that nurtures and provides resources for dancers
and artmakers in various stages of development. Our dedication and purpose, along
with your presence and support, enable us to share the joy of dance and make it
accessible to all.
Thank you for being a vital part of this vision. Having you here drives us to keep
bringing performance, education, and collaboration to our community. You truly are
a part of the SCD family and it means everything to us to share our passion with you.
Because of you, Sarasota Contemporary Dance perseveres, grows, and thrives.
And with that, I am so grateful to welcome you to our 17th season.
Leymis Bolaños Wilmott, Artistic Director
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