Exploring the Dance Collaboration Between Twyla Tharp and Sarah Jane Memoli
1. Introduction to Memoli and Tharp
Twyla Tharp, a renowned choreographer, and Sarah Jane Memoli, a talented dancer, embarked on a creative journey that redefined contemporary dance. Memoli’s transition from the Graham company in 2024 to Tharp’s tour marked the beginning of an inspiring collaboration. Tharp, in her 50s, was exploring new techniques, blending classical elements with improvisation to create a unique style. Her approach emphasized stripping away preparations, combining a loose upper body with aClassically held center, and using torque for suspension. This innovative method intrigued Memoli, who found herself captivated by Tharp’s fluid yet grounded movements.
2. Tharp’s Approach and Technique
Tharp’s dance technique is a blend of classical elements infused with contemporary flair. She encourages dancers to move with a sense of weight, which contrasts with the more grounded Graham technique. This approach involves dropping the pelvis and initiating movement from the imagination, allowing for a deeper connection to the dance. Tharp’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of internal focus, advising dancers to resist the urge to "perform" and instead allow the audience to connect with the dance organically.
3. Memoli’s Transition from Graham
Memoli’s background in the Graham technique, known for its modern and grounded style, provided a solid foundation, but Tharp’s approach presented new challenges. Tharp’s method required Memoli to embrace a different kind of movement—one that was fluid and transformative. This shift from the structured Graham style to Tharp’s more improvisational approach allowed Memoli to explore new dimensions of her artistry.
4. Memoli’s Learning Process and Challenges
The transition was not without its hurdles. Memoli had to adapt to Tharp’s emphasis on weight and fluidity, which contrasted sharply with the grounded nature of Graham’s style. Tharp’s advice to "feel heavy" and "let the audience come" challenged Memoli to rethink her approach to movement. This period of growth was transformative, as Memoli learned to initiate movement from her imagination rather than her body, leading to a deeper, more intuitive connection with the dance.
5. Description of "Slacktide"
"Slacktide," set to the music of Philip Glass, is a piece that embodies fluidity and transformation. The title refers to the moment when the tide seems to stand still before reversing, symbolizing the transition from one state to another. Compared to Tharp’s more dynamic works like "In the Upper Room," "Slacktide" is dreamier and more introspective, capturing the essence of change and the beauty of stillness.
6. Tharp’s Philosophy and Performance Style
Tharp’s philosophy centers on allowing the dance to reach the audience without forced performance. This approach encourages dancers to trust the process and let the movement speak for itself. Memoli’s experience with Tharp illustrates the transformative power of dance, highlighting the importance of adaptability and openness to new techniques. This collaboration not only expanded Memoli’s artistic expression but also enriched Tharp’s continued exploration of movement and technique.
Through their collaboration, Tharp and Memoli exemplify the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation, creating a dance language that continues to inspire and evolve.
