Exciting Premiere of 21 Yeses at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center
This November, Nashville is buzzing with energy as it prepares for the premiere of _21 Yeses_, an extraordinary dance performance that combines contemporary choreography with cutting-edge lighting design. The event kicks off on November 22 and runs through the 24 at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC). So, if you are looking for a unique experience that tantalizes your senses, this is the event for you!
A Journey Through Light and Movement
_21 Yeses_ is not just any dance show—it’s described as a “dance of light and void.” Choreographed by the talented Banning Bouldin, the performance takes the audience on a captivating journey through *the presence of absence*, exploring themes of light as a living, moving entity and darkness as a vast stillness. It’s a little like stepping into a dream—a hyperdream—and you certainly don’t want to miss it!
The dancers—Madison Brott, Lenin Fernandez, Emma Morrison, and Shabaz Ujima—play integral roles as they engage with stunning multi-color LED tubes, transporting viewers into a mesmerizing world of color and movement. Just imagine watching these performers interweave their bodies while manipulating vibrant lights, creating a dance that is as visually striking as it is emotionally resonant. Sounds incredible, right?
Fusing Dance with Technology
This production stands out for its innovative approach, as it combines contemporary dance with advanced lighting technologies more commonly seen in concerts. With the artistic collaboration of Banning Bouldin and Michael Brown—who has previously worked with the band Bon Iver—the audience will experience a flawless interplay between light and movement. Through an inspiring blend of choreography and design, each element captures and releases energy, creating a truly astonishing spectacle.
The inspiration for _21 Yeses_ can be traced back to a short work commissioned by Tracey Ford for the Nashville Design Week earlier this year. Following this initial success, the concept was created into an evening-length production that has been meticulously crafted under the direction of Michael Brown.
Three Acts Filled with Emotion
The performance is elegantly structured into three acts, drawing inspiration from poet _Hannah Emerson_ and her compelling piece, “Center of the Universe.” Emerson’s poem serves as a rallying cry for personal transformation and self-discovery through the metaphor of light and darkness—ideas that are embodied throughout this theatrical experience. Here’s a little taste of Emerson’s evocative poetry:
“Please try to go to hell frequently, because you will find the light there, yes yes…”
This quote sets the tone for the essence of the performance and creates a sense of anticipation for what the audience might experience. As the dancers bring Emerson’s words to life, expect to be immersed in a world where the metaphysical becomes tangible.
A Celebration of Art and Community
Produced in collaboration with several talented individuals—including executive producer Tracey Ford, creative producer Teten, and associate producer Tonya Lewis—this performance has been a collective labor of love. Costume designer Katrina Huckerby, along with the residency host Kathryn Wilkening from Centennial Performing Arts Studios, have all played significant roles in bringing this magnificent vision to fruition.
So, if you find yourself in Nashville this November, don’t miss the chance to witness _21 Yeses_. This dazzling blend of dance and technology is sure to leave you feeling inspired and connected, reminding us of the beauty of light, movement, and the continuous cycle of rebirth within the art you can experience. Come, be part of this luminous journey!
