Paul Taylor Troupe Teaches, Motivates during Dance Residency

Taylor 2, the outreach troupe of Paul Taylor American Modern Dance, visited Groton this week—performing and teaching as dancers-in-residence.
 
 
The six members of Taylor 2 worked directly with about 60 students—members of the School’s afternoon dance program and the cast of the winter musical, as well as others interested in dance. They provided professional-level guidance as well as inspiration.
 
In addition, they shared their artistry with the entire School during a Tuesday evening performance that included a piece reminiscent of classical ballet as well as one influenced by tango. “The residency provided a wonderful way for students to experience the power of a great dance performance and to have personal contact with the artists themselves,” said Arts Department Head Mary Ann Lanier.
 
Several Groton dancers said that the professional-level instruction motivated them to push themselves harder. “Our students gained a fuller appreciation for the expressive power and technical challenges of dance," Lanier said. "They were asked to use all of their physical, emotional, and intellectual energies as they learned snippets of Paul Taylor's choreography in dance workshops."

Abby Kong '17, a serious dancer herself, was impressed with the workshops. "The dancers taught with such enthusiasm and expertise," she said. "They were all so kind and humble and funny. I hope we can host more workshops in the future."

The dance residency had an impact on dancers at all levels, as well as non-dancers. "Those who danced were inspired to strive for greater accomplishment," Lanier said. "Those who had not danced before were exposed to the beauty, power, and expressive possibilities of the art of dance."

See photos from the dance residency on our multimedia page.
 
 
 
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