By Anna Skinner
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre is known for its moving performances, and “Metamorphosis,” set for 7 p.m. July 1 and 2 at The Tarkington, 3 Center Green, is no exception.
“It’s called ‘Metamorphosis’ because over the past two years, I’ve gone through a lot of challenges. I felt that my life had to go through a metamorphosis and I had to have a change,” said Gregory Hancock, choreographer. “The two years affected my company, so it’s a metamorphosis for the company and dancers as well. It’s a rebirth of everybody.”
Three separate pieces will be performed during “Metamorphosis,” including “Until There Is No More,” “The River’s Edge” and “The Violin Under the Bed.”
“Until There Is No More” and “The River’s Edge” have both been performed before. After those are shown, there will be an intermission and then “The Violin Under the Bed” will be performed for the first time.
“Until There Is No More” is the last performance Hancock’s mother saw before her death, which led to part of his metamorphosis. Hancock said “The River’s Edge” is a joyous piece that his mother enjoyed.
“(‘The Violin Under the Bed’) is the whole second act, it’s a big piece,” he said. “It’s been very personal to work on, and I’ve made it very personal to my dancers. All the dancers that are dancing knew my mother personally. I wanted to share a lot of the stories with them so they understood my mother more so she lives on.”
“The Violin Under the Bed” will show Hancock’s mother’s love of sport, travel, nature and art.
“This is a piece I made for my mom, which was daunting and challenging to do,” Hancock said. “It’s lots of little vignettes and memories and moments from her life because that’s what our life is all about is all these moments and how they connect together.”
The entire performance is contemporary ballet.
“These are personal stories, but this is a part of my metamorphosis,” Hancock said. “I’m not the same person I was, so my art shouldn’t remain the same either. Sometimes when we are younger, we worry so much about what people will think, and you get to a point in your career where it’s just about what you need to say and how to say it. That’s what makes art beautiful and unique.”
Tickets are $38.50 for adults and $33.50 for students and seniors.
For more, visit thecenterfortheperformingarts.com.
