RECURRENT MEASURES DELUXE (RMD)
RECURRENT MEASURES DELUXE (RMD) is created for gallery and studio spaces. RMD evokes optimistic persistence as it oscillates between meditation and queer elation. RMD combines hypnotic circular motion and detailed flow with musical support by The Younger Lovers and original costumes by fashion designer Antonio Ortega. The cumulative actions, sound and costuming of RMD work towards progressively balancing the space, and viewers, across time between calm positivity and rhythmic energy.
Developed in residencies at the Baryshnikov Arts Center in NYC, Dance4 in England and Par B.L.eux in Montréal, RECURRENT MEASURES premiered at Agora de la Danse in February 2018 to sold-out houses and critical acclaim. This project was supported by The Canada Council for the Arts and Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec.
SISTER NIGHTLIGHT
SISTER NIGHTLIGHT is an investigation of the unique and contrasting qualities of nocturnal human sensations. From the soothing cocoon of a nightlight to the hypnotic intensity of club dance, this multidisciplinary performance piece featuring drummer Rémy Saminadin and choreographer/dancer George Stamos explores how we all move towards nighttime rituals that make us safe. SISTER NIGHTLIGHT interplays between the ecstatic physicality of party dancing, relaxed body states of private slumber, and agitated states of insomnia. Whether seen through the lens of contemplative solitude or festive nightlife, SISTER NIGHTLIGHT is grounded in dramaturgy inspired by the night. Currently awaiting confirmation of funding, the next iteration of SISTER NIGHTLIGHT may include guest appearances by musician Roger White and an additional performer.
SNAP, ARCHIE'S STORY
SNAP Archie's Story is a short video project conceived and directed by George Stamos featuring the dancing, story and distinct voice of NYC Vogue and Waacking icon Archie Burnett (AKA Grandfather of the House of Ninja). In this rare and vulnerable portrait of Burnett, vivid imagery and Archie’s narration come together to tell his story of strength, resilience, and unwavering fierceness.
As Vogue and Waacking dance styles have been increasingly popularized around the globe over the past 30 years, and integrated into contemporary dance practices, Archie Burnett has remained at the forefront as a respected cultural ambassador of these dance styles and the social contexts they are from. He is a celebrated performer, master teacher to everyone from stars like Bette Midler to aspiring young dancers, and an important knowledge keeper who carries the roots of club culture in his body and memory.
As Vogue and Waacking continue to gain marked popularity in the contemporary dance world, now is an essential time to emphasize the origins of these forms of dance and to humanize them; to honor their history. Snap received support from The Canada Council for the Arts.
ONE KIND FAVOR
With the world increasingly full of misinformation and miscommunication, as empty images of brutality bombard us across platforms, the courage to be kind is increasingly essential. Choreographed by George Stamos in collaboration with fellow performer Karla Etienne, ONE KIND FAVOR is an exploration of how kindness can be embodied with grace, with brute force and sometimes failing despite all good intentions.
This transdisciplinary performance project is centred on the spaces created by the coming together of the collaborators. ONE KIND FAVOR is a show of appreciation for the multiplicity of inheritances that cohabitate in society at large and within us as individuals. ONE KIND FAVOR is also an acknowledgment of those who have had the courage to be kind and impact our lives with their generosity. ONE KIND FAVOR is a co-production between George Stamos and Danse-Cité, supported by The Canada Council for the Arts.