Pilobolus Dance Company Concludes Three-Week Season at NYC’s Joyce Theater

Pilobolus Concludes Three-Week Season at the Joyce Theater in NYC. The iconic dance company was formed in 1971 when three student-athletes crossed paths in a movement composition course at Dartmouth College. Thriving under their radically creative teacher, they started Pilobous to continue the same thought-provoking dance-the name refers to a phototrophic fungus whose spores could rapidly accelerate in the early stages of its flight. While this reflects the dancers’ power in spirit and physicality, it exudes an educational elitism that has been rounded out over the years as the company has grown. Still thinking deeply, Pilobolus is known for combining intelligence and reflection with innovative choreography and storytelling. The intricate numbers and advanced athleticism are noteworthy as they’ve performed on Broadway, at the Oscars, and in the Olympic games.

The Joyce Theater was honored to host Pilobolus for three weeks of performances ending July 30th. The“Big Five-OH!” remixed previous works combining vintage and visionary aspects. One program started with Megawatt, a powerful piece choreographed by Jonathan Wolken in memory of a late founding member. The dancers displayed electrifying energy, engaging in intense fighting, showing determination to push forward. In Evening Song, a crowd-pleasing favorite, they explored dreams with a beautiful sound score. The sextet impressed with creative and ethereal group lifts, artfully accompanied by dusky lighting. A vintage piece called Untitled featured charming performances by Feliz and Klinkman in elegant gowns. The surreal and humorous courtship dance showcased playfulness. Their versatility, technical prowess, and emotional artistry left the audience in awe. Each piece exhibited Pilobolus’s distinct style, from intense energy to comedic brilliance and soulful performances, showcasing exceptional talent and creativity. 

Tannis Norton