Broadway Bares

Broadway Bares XXI: Masterpiece will offer up a modern-day burlesque show packed with museum-quality human canvases that would make an art critic blush. 'Mover,' Summer Broyhill will be one them baring some skin in attempt to raise much needed funds.

The first Broadway Bares in 1992 featured seven dancers performing choreographed stripteases on a bar that raised $8,000. In the 20 editions so far, Broadway Bares has collectively raised more than $7.5 million.

A letter from Summer:

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Hello!

I very much appreciate your support, whether it be by donation or in your attendance at Broadway Bares XXI STRIPATHON.

All proceeds go to support Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, a phenomenal non-profit that not only supports those living with this horrendous illness, but also a variety of other public health programs geared at the artistic community.

BC/EFA is the major supporter of seven programs at The Actors Fund, including The HIV/AIDS Initiative, The Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative, The Al Hirschfeld Free Health Clinic (a personal Godsend for me in times when the only health insurance I could afford was insufficient), The Actors Fund Work Program, The Dancers’ Resource, The Stage Managers’ Project and three supportive housing residences. BC/EFA also awards annual grants to more than 400 AIDS and family service organizations nationwide.

No amount is too small (or too great), so let's use small change to make a big difference!

-Summer Broyhill

Visit here to contribute a donation of your own OR buy tickets to the event here!

'Cut Color Move' OFFICIAL VIDEO

I am thrilled to release my proudest work yet! So many talented artists worked on this project including Layla Joy an Aveda Cosmetologist, Tracey Katof a commercial and Broadway Showcase Choreographer as the Assistant Choreographer, and Joshua Katcher a talented video artist from Perhaps Media Production Co. stepped in to help capture every moment I had envisioned for Cut Color Move.

Cosmetologist, Layla Joy, contributed all Aveda hair products and sourced them to be cruelty free and environmentally responsible.  Styling for the dancers was either borrowed, thrift or all cruelty free sourced vegan materials. Lifestyle icon, Joshua Katcher recently released his Mens Eco Shoe line which can be seen, worn by me, from his upcoming online store, BraveGentleMan.com.

Without further ado, 'Cut Color Move'! For more on James Koroni and Enforced Arch website visit the About page!

Dear Stranger

Dance inspires action, expresses ideas or wisdom, and is given as a gift to others. 'Mover,' Nicole Javanna Johnson has developed a way to implement all three of these elements to make a difference for others while doing what she loves. Johnson created Javanna Productions, a nonprofit organization that presents an annual effort entitled M.O.V.E.: Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment. In this effort all are encouraged to take action, be creative and develop a stronger sense of community within their neighborhoods while raising funds for a cause. This years efforts are entitled M.O.V.E. The Cambodia Project. They are working with the Bernie Krisher foundation to build a school in rural Cambodia, thereby raising awareness and funds for education. The following excerpt from M.O.V.E. The Cambodia Project’s theme song by Bridget Barkan describes our relationship to those whose shoes we may not have walked in, but in light of, whose experiences we can certainly dance:

Dear Stranger, I love you, (I love you) I know, what this world can do to you.

Dear Stranger, I need you. You need me too. Together we can make it through.

The people of Cambodia have faced deep tragedy in the last century. Recovering from genocide requires much forethought. Generous action from strangers will help catapult progress. By building schools we teach Cambodian children their history and generate a light of hope. M.O.V.E. The Cambodia Project has set a goal to raise $20,000 in funds to support their cause.

Fortunately New York City is culturally diverse and provides its patrons with tremendous opportunities in which we can spread awareness and instill what change is needed. Johnson grasps these opportunities to spread Cambodia’s needs, and without question, onlookers emphatically express interest and find ways to support her efforts.

M.O.V.E. The Cambodian Project was most recently seen at the New York Dance Parade with support of Broadway Dance Centers educational department. Now in its fifth year it has brought together almost ten thousand dancers, almost two hundred dance organizations and nearly one hundred unique styles. Before May 21^st these dancers may have been considered strangers, but when brought together with a common love for dance one can appreciate and experience their power. Click here for more on M.O.V.E. The Cambodian Project.

Click here to donate and help them reach their goals!

Photography by Serena Dykman

Cut Color Move

I recently produced an eco-vegan dance video with compassionate cosmetologist Layla Joy. I admire her for working at Aveda, an environmentally responsible company that manufactures professional plant-based hair care, skin care, makeup, Pure-Fume™ and lifestyle products. After she read 'Skinny Bitch,' a New York Times Best Seller, written by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin, it brought forth a harsh reality that she could not ignore. This set her on a journey to answer one important question, 'Where did this come from and at what cost?' After doing much research she knew that rather than feeling conquered by such tragedy she could find a way to contribute to rebuilding a sustainable life for all living things. She found Aveda and now stands as a proud lead stylist at one of their popular salons!

Our video is scheduled to release in mid June! Here are a few photos to entice your eyes.Director, Editor & Choreographer, James Koroni

Producers, Layla Joy & James Koroni

Aveda Cosmetologist, Layla Joy

Assistant Aveda Cosmetologist, Natalie Hill

Assistant Choreographer, Tracey Katof

Featured Dancers; Elyse Niederee, James Koroni, Lauren Cox, Kiet Lam & Tracey Katof

Video Consultant, Joshua Katcher

Wes Looks East

Wes Veldink has inspired the dance and arts community in such a way that we will forever experience his genius. He deeply respects future generations and with recent tragedies occurring in Japan he's teamed up with his friends at CARE-WAVE to make a difference. Utilizing their creative talents by producing an evening benefit that will inform our society of what still needs our attention and raise much needed funds. As a choreographer he goes beyond its raw form of expression and transcends into compassionate vision, yet another reason why his influence will live beyond our generation.

A message from NYC FOR JPN Organizer, Wes Veldink:

CARE-WAVE founder, Mayumi Kamata has been my friend and collaborator for over two decades.  In 2007, she started CARE-WAVE following a trip to New York where she was inspired by organizations like BROADWAY CARES.  She quickly organized the artistic community in Tokyo and CARE-WAVE began.

CARE-WAVE is a nonprofit organization that stages socially conscious “CARE-WAVE AID” musicals to deliver true stories of the world, including hunger, poverty and conflict.  CARE-WAVE is committed to nourishing global awareness in children and youth through art.  Proceeds from the performances are donated to aid organizations with the aim of connecting the artists and the audience with humanitarian aid activities around the world, and to spread the wave of caring for others.

Since the earthquakes and tsunami hit Japan, CARE-WAVE has been focusing their efforts to providing relief for survivors by bringing food, water and supplies to areas affected by the recent disaster.  Kesen Numa, home to a children’s theatre company who are regular participants in CARE-WAVE AID productions is currently receiving scheduled relief runs from CARE-WAVE.

We look forward to seeing you at NYC FOR JPN!

(art heals.) Wes

You are invited to attend NYC FOR JPN, an evening of art, music and movement in support of CARE-WAVE, a non-profit organization, providing on-the-ground relief to earthquake and tsunami survivors in the Miyagi region of Japan.  Join us for a pre-show art exhibit and auction, live music and a special selection of solo dance works.  Money raised is going to hit the ground running.  It is a direct and fast way to help people now.  Let’s show our friends in JPN that NYC cares! NYC FOR JAPAN Details Date:  Tuesday, May 10th, 2011 Location:  Theater 80 // 80 St. Marks Place btwn 1st & 2nd Ave Time: 6:30pm art exhibit opens // 7:00pm show Tickets: $20 silver // $50 gold // $100 platinum

Featuring solo dance works choreographed & performed by:  Lauren Adams, Tim Anderson, Jessica Hendricks, Shelly Masenoir Hutchinson, Ida Saki, Kristin Sudeikis & Jaclyn K. Walsh

Live Music:  Hazey Jane & Sarah Marzalek-Kelly

Short Films: Ayelen Liberona, Masakazu Saito & Wes Veldink

Auction Artists: Gina Beavers, Aimee G., James Kerr, Studio Marmalade & Deborah Yoon

Co-Producers:  Wes Veldink & Yoshiko Nagai Produced by:  Calm & Sense Creations with Tezoro Productions Production Manager:  Venita McLemore

Tickets: Limited advance tickets available online, remainder will be available at the door. Facebook Event Page Youtube playlist of participating artists CARE-WAVE website

WAYS TO DONATE TO CARE-WAVE:  If you are unable to attend the event, please send your support to CARE-WAVE by mailing an INTERNATIONAL MONEY ORDER / CASHIERS CHECK addressed to CARE-WAVE.

Please mail your donation to - CARE-WAVE c/o Chieko Yanagisawa Yato-Cho 2-1-24-1207 Nishi-Tokyo-City, Tokyo 188-0001 Japan

OR click here to donate now using your credit card.

Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary

Photography by Joshua Katcher of TheDiscerningBrute.com

I took a trip up to Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary today to spend some time with often misunderstood farm animals. I was accompanied by Joshua Katcher, Elizabeth Castoria and Leanne Mailey Hilgart whom are dear to my heart!

The most beautiful element of the animals on this farm is that they have the freedom to wander the fields and socialize with one another just as we do in our daily lives. Their personalities are charming and they each have a heart wrenching story of how they were abused, restrained and left for dead on livestock farms. The owners of Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, Jenny Brown & Doug Abel, intervene in these cases and give them a permanent and safe home.

As a dancer I am very inspired by the way they communicate. Through affection and thoughtful actions they demonstrate honesty, sensitivity and with a playful nature. They are fearless to share love and once a bond of trust is built you have a friend for life. It's tough knowing that livestock farming is the number one cause of global warming, where animals live in extremely cruel conditions and are later sent to be killed for food. They're treated as objects rather than sentient beings with a will to live and breath. Eating animals has been scientifically proven to cause many life threatening diseases. Change is imperative for the survival of life on this planet, this is why I respect and love animals and rebel against cultural pressure to participate in activities that are responsible for the very downfall of existence.

We spent our day relaxing with sheep, nuzzling up to turkeys and being entertained by the jovial goats. I never knew how playful and emotional farm animals were until I had met them face to face. Here are a few moments from our experience.

You too can have your very own experience with these delicate animals. Their visiting hours can be found here, Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary.

M.O.V.E. For Autism at 52nd Street Project

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Photography by Angel Gardner & Joshua Katcher

Special thanks to Broadway Dance Center!

For more info VISIT jpmove.webs.com

Arrest Yourself, Yet Again!

If you missed out on our last performance of 'Arrest Yourself' here's your chance to see us live! ‎'M.O.V.E. For Autism' created by 'Mover' Nicole Johnson! April 26th (tonight) from 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM 52nd St Project Theater 2nd floor btwn 52nd & 53rd St on 10th Ave.

Students: $10.00 Adults: $15.00

'Arrest Yourself' Choreographer: James Koroni Dancers: Aubrey Bailey, James Koroni, Kiet Lam, Lauren Cox & Scott Hamilton

Washington Square Sparks

Photography By James Koroni

DANCERS

Nicole Johnson,

Pierce Cady, Javier Gonzalez, Clare Maceda, Alex Sala, Randel Santangelo &

Anthony.

MOVE For Autism, April 26th at 52 Street Project

You are cordially invited to an enchanted evening, with 'Mover' Nicole Johnson, where you will be inspired by artists united by their unique voice, "movement." Javanna Productions' M.O.V.E. (Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment) and Broadway Dance Center presents 'M.O.V.E. For Autism.' A night of movement and dance to raise funds and awareness for the autistic community. Featuring students from BDC's ISVP, Pro Semester, and Training Program along with original M.O.V.E. members and a few special guests!

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Our compassionate 'Mover' Nicole Johnson created an initiative for dancers to contribute their "voice" to assist communities with compromised living conditions. She developed JP, Javanna Productions, when she was thirteen years old and since then has had a very positive response from audiences across the country.

JP's 'M.O.V.E.' is their most recent endeavor which is ultimately trying to make the world an easier place to live in. They focus on many different social issues and reach out to those who are in need of resources such as the Autistic community, the Cambodian community, Cancer stricken patients in the U.S. and an orphanage in Uganda. They intend to raise awareness and funds for these causes while using their craft and doing what makes them happy.

Check out their promotional video:

Here's where you can contribute. Simply stop by and enjoy the show! The most charming aspect of Nicole Johnson's 'M.O.V.E.' is all her efforts inspire happiness in the lives of those involved.

LINKS: AutismSpeaks.org jpmove.webs.com BroadwayDanceCenter.com

Nicole Johnson

NICOLE JOHNSON

Nicole Johnson is a freshman at NYU studying social entrepreneurship via public administration and the arts. After moving from Miami, FL in the Fall of 2008, Nicole re-launched her production company, Javanna Productions, and presented an effort entitled M.O.V.E which stands for Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment. Javanna Productions' M.O.V.E is an effort that not only promotes awareness and raises funds for rising issues, but it provides today's generation and generations to come with an example of brotherly responsibility. JP's MOVE seeks to encourage pre-teens, teens and young adults to be productive, be creative, be aware of local and worldly issues and develop a stronger sense of community within their neighborhoods. This year, Javanna Productions' M.O.V.E. is raising funds and awareness for the need for education in rural parts of the world. Nicole is working with the Bernie Krisher Rural School Project Foundation to build a school in rural Cambodia within the next two years. Since 2008 M.O.V.E. has raised money and awareness for organizations like Autism Speaks, QSAC, Children of Uganda, Church Of Christ in Ghana and the Fivers Foundation. In addition to the productions and events she hosts monthly, Nicole has performed in runs of A Chorus Line as Cassie, Into The Woods as the Witch and Rosie in Bye Bye Birdie receiving the National Youth Theater Awards' Best Actress in a Musical title for all three roles.

"M.O.V.E. is innovation. M.O.V.E. is inspiration. M.O.V.E. is change and change is needed." -Nicole Johnson

Bag Lady

Lauren Cox makes her moves despite the weight of this social issue. Domestic violence can be found in many forms. In her piece entitled 'Bag Lady,' Lauren exudes bravery and is determined to free others of what turmoil they are experiencing in their daily lives. She uses her choreographic voice as a platform to inspire and inform others that there is a support system in place for you to fall back upon. The story tellers, or Freedom Sisters, introduce you to a woman lost in a whirlwind of confrontation. Past "baggage" holds her to prior relationships where love was never the foundation. Rather emotional insecurity and manipulation lived as a means to control her heart. As the story unfolds you see the character build confidence through her loving friends. When she finally takes a stand these women are there to assist her in the process of letting go. For upcoming performances of 'Bag Lady' & the Freedom Sisters check back with Enforced Arch!

Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC)

Choreographer Lauren Cox

Assistant Choreographers Andrea Queens & James Koroni

Dancers Andrea Torres, Andrea Queens, Federica Paoli, Klara Beyeler, Lauren Cox, Maria Del Rosario Aviles, Raphael Dw Thomas & James Koroni.

Sasha

I had the opportunity to choreograph and dance for Sasha the "Russian Madonna." Making her debut in the US has been effortless for this fashion forward recording artist. After watching my YouTube Channel she contacted me with much enthusiasm. She wanted me to develop an eclectic performance for her upcoming single release at a local NYC nightclub.

With three days to prepare a jaw dropping performance I needed a talented and tirelessly diligent dance choreographer to team up with. I called on my friend Tracey Katof to assist me in the studio the very next evening. She and I completed the piece on the second day and taught the dancers shortly thereafter. Special thanks are owed to our dancers; Jac-Louis Snyman, Lauren Cox & Kelsey Furhman. Their performance energy, positive attitude and professionalism coalesced into a captivating dance experience that no one had anticipated!

Our costumes are pleather military couture tops with chains and prominent shoulder pads. Check out some photos from our performance.[imagebrowser id=10]

Photography by Andrew Werner

I was especially impressed with Sasha for her interest in social issues. Our initial meeting over coffee in the West Village was all about sharing our common interest in communicating world issues and offering compassion through artistry. She is an advocate for a charity called Pencils of Promise. Their work reflects their commitment to sustainable educational opportunities. Their role is to create more than just four walls; the schools they build must continue to provide generations of quality education. To ensure their success, they approach works from the bottom up, finding and working with communities who don't just need a school, but who are invested in creating a successful one. (source)

I appreciated the opportunity to work for an artist that is unconditionally interested in the minds of tomorrow. I wish her the best in all that she does!

For more on Sasha, visit SashaNow.com!

Night Life, Night Lights

I took a trip to the Public Assembly in Williamsburg where the one year anniversary of Beatles Burlesque took place. The experience was whimsical, enchanting and not only did I get to see one 'Mover' perform but there were two compassionate ladies in the line up! Anja Keister & Bettina May each took the stage that evening.

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ANJA KEISTER

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BETTINA MAY

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These ladies never fail to impress to me. They live to shed light on the burlesque industry which is traditionally rife with feathers and fur. Anja Keister created The Trials and Tribulations of A Vegan Burlesque Performer which features creative and responsible leading ladies while Bettina May makes all of her own garments! You can see more of her wardrobe here!

Check back for more performances by these two Beaming Bombshells!

James Koroni: Arrest Yourself, Part 4 of 4

JAMES KORONI, Arrest Yourself for complying with a mindless day to day routine. With that as our permanent attitude there would need to be an endless supply of goods for you to consume. Our common products are far removed from its original resource and this intangible "object" somehow gives us permission to relieve ourselves of any responsibility. This is how the huge corporations would like to keep it however, if we are kept dumb then they can do whatever they want. By not feeling any of the suffering that goes into production we give them power over us asa consumer almost as if we're hypnotized by their marketing campaigns. I find the statement "Ignorance is Bliss!," as the downfall of society. We turn our heads at uncomfortable information because once understood we might need to make change in our lives that are outside of our comfort zones. Our comfort zone is only concerned with our personal well being and this is where hope is lost. Selfish acts are blind to suffering.

This doesn't mean we need to write on signs and head out to the nearest protest. By being particular in where we make purchases we decide the results of tomorrow. How do we create a more compassionate and sustainable future through thoughtful consumerism? We need to trace our products back to its source. Were people treated as dignified human beings in the production of my clothing? Are animals individuals, do they deserve a life free of exploitation? Why is fast food so cheap and how does it affect your health, the environment and small businesses? There are too many issues to list.

'Arrest Yourself' was created to inspire individuals to seek answers and make change. Make your comfort zone bigger and offer compassion to those beyond yourself. It's not a question of faith. It's a question of reality. Where does 'this' come from and who did it affect prior to arriving before me.

James Koroni studied at ‘The Edge‘ in Los Angeles,‘Broadway Dance Center‘ in New York City and Santa Monica College in Los Angeles. A few of his credits include choreographing and dancing for Princess Superstar in Paris, France, dancing for Madonna at MACY’s in Herald Square, choreographing and dancing for Clara Lofaro in NY, NY, performing in ‘Rhapsody’s Sirens after Dark‘ at the BLVD on Bowery, participated in the production of Bagabones at The Fringe Festival in New York City and teaching at NorthPort Dance in Long Island. His Internships and Administrative credits include ‘Broadway Dance Center’ under the International Student Visa Program with Director Bonnie Erickson and is currently employed at Cynthia King Dance Studio in Brooklyn, NYC as Cynthia King’s Executive Assistant.

“So much of life carries the potential to shock and excite me and whether traditional or controversial, if it offers compassion I find a reason to appreciate its beauty.” - James Koroni

LAUREN COX: Arrest Yourself Part 1 of 4 SCOTT HAMILTON: Arrest Yourself, Part 2 of 4 KIET LAM: Arrest Yourself, Part 3 of 4

Photography by Joshua Katcher of TheDiscerningBrute.com

Kiet Lam: Arrest Yourself, Part 3 of 4

“Ignorance Is Bliss?” Arrest Yourself! By avoiding inconvenient and unpleasant information we hide from the worlds current state. Whether it be Factory Farming, Green House Gas or Social Justice we must understand and address these issues before it’s too late. "I do my best to rehydrate you at the risk of absurdity/there's nothing left between us but a state of emergency" -Hot Chip

KIET LAM, Life is about relationships. Never taking myself as an isolated entity in the world, I am reminded that each day is marked by continuous give and take between me and the people with whom I work, or ride the subway, or buy groceries, or dance, or grab dinner- the list goes on. "Arrest Yourself," in its music and movement, is a reminder to me that the balances in these relationships are delicate, and that every relationship requires effort and sacrifice. This concept may seem obvious, but I think the part that many choose to forget is that it extends not just to one's immediate friends, but to everyone who crosses one's path throughout the day. Every person deserves compassion and kindness, and we often forget that duty in the hustle of daily life. It is in these momentary lapses, that you "Arrest Yourself" in order to rediscover what it means to be a part of Life.

Kiet started in the world of competitive Ballroom dance, then made the move into jazz and hip-hop through Groove Dance Co., a collegiate dance performance group at Yale University. He studied at Broadway Dance Center in New York City in the Summer Intern Program, where he got the opportunity to work with Jim Cooney as a dancer on a special Broadway-themed episode of Extreme Makeover Home Edition. His other credits include the ISVP Performance Project at Broadway Dance Center, and various pieces he has choreographed for Groove Dance Co. at Yale, including his most recent piece "Mirrors".

"The greatest happiness is to transform one's feelings into action." -Kiet Lam

Performance of Arrest Yourself, February 19th 2011 @ 7PM!

Kumble Theater- One University Plaza Brooklyn, NY 11201

TICKETS Discount Code: BeKind

LAUREN COX: Arrest Yourself Part 1 of 4 SCOTT HAMILTON: Arrest Yourself, Part 2 of 4 JAMES KORONI: Arrest Yourself, Part 4 of 4

Scott Hamilton: Arrest Yourself, Part 2 of 4

“Ignorance Is Bliss?” Arrest Yourself! By avoiding inconvenient and unpleasant information we hide from the worlds current state. Whether it be Factory Farming, Green House Gas or Social Justice we must understand and address these issues before it’s too late. SCOTT HAMILTON, "I am a King with a million servants. At any moment, someone somewhere is doing work for me. Making my food, sweeping up trash, sewing the clothes I wear.  Just about anything I need is provided for me. Things are so easily accessible why would anyone bother worrying about where they came from? Could I answer that question most of the time? Probably not. Everyday I am bombarded with goods, services and information, and the most difficult part of the day is simply choosing what I want.

Modern civilization has become highly fragmented and micro-focused on the individual; while all this is happening, who among us will step back and take the time to focus on a more macro level?  What happened to, “The Greater Good”, and something more than ourselves?

I believe technology and the modern world have trained us to become numb and accepting of ignorance on some levels. Our ever growing desire to cater to the individual only perpetuates the issue, as we shift focus from our fellow man to ourselves at ever increasing rates. When we don’t know who to blame for our growing feelings of isolation in an ever connected world, and the irony of the situation becomes too much to reconcile in our own minds, we point fingers. In reality, we as individuals need to be held accountable.

I think it’s within human nature to crave knowledge and we need to start making real efforts towards being completely responsible for our own actions and knowing what important role we play within our society.

Its natural to be self centered, but to do so to the degree with which you would lose connection to society as a whole and blind yourself with ignorance is frightening. Even a King must listen and understand their people to survive."Scott Hamilton began his dance training in 2005 at Western Michigan University. Prior to relocating to New York City, Scott received Degrees in International Marketing, Vocal Performance and Dance Performance in April 2008. With New York as his base, Scott’s been busy touring and performing internationally, entertaining in theaters around the United States, and giving back to students right here in New York. His goal was to be doing what he loves, and thankfully he loves it more and more each day. "Laugh often, and tell the people you love, that you love them."

Performance of Arrest Yourself, February 19th 2011 @ 7PM!

Kumble Theater- One University Plaza Brooklyn, NY 11201

TICKETS Discount Code: BeKind

LAUREN COX: Arrest Yourself Part 1 of 4 KIET LAM: Arrest Yourself, Part 3 of 4 JAMES KORONI: Arrest Yourself, Part 4 of 4

Lauren Cox: Arrest Yourself, Part 1 of 4

"Ignorance Is Bliss?" Arrest Yourself! By avoiding inconvenient and unpleasant information we hide from the worlds current state. Whether it be Factory Farming, Green House Gas or Social Justice we must understand and address these issues before it's too late. 'Mover,' James Koroni choreographed a piece entitled 'Arrest Yourself' to remind people that they are personally responsible for their own demise. To properly present this as a performance piece his dancers also shared their opinions on how this issue is prominent in their own lives.

LAUREN COX, "I've noticed that we walk around day to day bombarded with opinions from our peers, media and limited by our own comfort zones. We allow so much of it to guide our steps and we are often afraid of embracing new information because somehow it will disrupt our current state of heaven when, in fact, it’s the contrary that leads to the path of happiness. And we all do it! We all struggle to find our own happiness outside of ourselves…this makes absolutely no sense, so 'Arrest Yourself!' Hold yourself captive, if only to give way to the inevitability of change. By being an active participant of my own dream and staying open-minded to the dreams of others I sew anonymous benefits upon the world. It is through collective dreams that we realize we are all deeply interconnected and can progress for each other on our short visit to this earth. It is a daily choice…carpé diem!!"

She is a lifetime student and teacher of dance and movement. Starting at the age of 6, Lauren trained rigorously and competed as a passionate Rhythmic Gymnast around the U.S. for 11 years with the aid of ballet, modern dance and pilates, eventually achieving 4th in the nation for level 9 and 20th for level 10. During college she discovered a love for Sociology, hip hop and youth advocacy through Culture Shock Dance Troupe in Oakland, California where she received training with prominent guest choreographers such as Nappy Tabs, performed at events such as S.F. Aids Walk, Monsters of Hip Hop and the ACL Championships with LL Cool J & Amerie and was a part of their competition team, CS Allstars, winning consecutive silver and bronze metals at the U.S. & World Hip Hop Championships in Los Angeles. After co-founding and dancing for Groove Against the Machine San Francisco and exhibitioning annually at events like World of Dance and Battlefest Bay Area she set out to learn yet another style in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where she studied Samba, African and Street Dance for one year. She returned to the States to accept Broadway Dance Center’s Summer Intensive Internship and has been training in ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop and freestyle for the past 7 months in order to converge and solidify her deep passion for the universal language of music through dance. She is now the Portuguese translator for Broadway Dance Center, teaches Hip Hop at Center Stage New Jersey and has just started a choreography project called “The Ladies Freedom Party” bringing conscious light to music & movement.

Performance of Arrest Yourself, February 19th 2011 @ 7PM!

Kumble Theater- One University Plaza Brooklyn, NY 11201

TICKETS Discount Code: BeKind

SCOTT HAMILTON: Arrest Yourself, Part 2 of 4 KIET LAM: Arrest Yourself, Part 3 of 4 JAMES KORONI: Arrest Yourself, Part 4 of 4

Indonesian Interlude

Venyci Yefriadi uses the power of dance to create a safe community at IDAI, Interlude Dance Academy Indonesia. Indonesia is ranked as 4th most populated in the world, the biggest Muslim population, the largest archipelago country, with a mix of democratic & sultanate governments, a home to over 30 different cultures & traditions - this is not an easy project for her. Her powerful warmth and interest inspires a generation faced with unpredictable cultural change and forced adaptation. She offers her students obtainable goals within dance and an eclectic family that is open to their differences.

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Her mother comes from a traditional Javanese family. Her mothers friends would often come into her home and share dance, music, art & philosophy while playing the gamelan (a traditional Javanese instrument). While her father is Chinese and has a classic respect for Chinese New Year and religious ritual. Her parents are a perfect example of Indonesia's complex cultural diversity. They never quite felt at home so they relocated throughout Indonesia, from Malang to Jakarta and later Singapore before Venyci chose Allentown, PA for college. She resides now, by her words, in 'sunny sometimes foggy' San Francisco!

Adapting to a new world and a new culture was very hard for me, every time you must face feeling lonely again, search for new friends and a community to call your own. The fear of moving to a new world effected me in my personal relationships, both with partners & friends. With every new "home," in the back of my mind, I knew that I would  be leaving soon. I kept all my relationships on the surface to avoid inevitable pain. Now as an adult I can see that change was my friend, changing is like flipping my hand & waking up in the morning. I have a special button or self alarm to activate my courage. I flow into every space and fit into any container. -Venyci Yefriadi

Her dancers experience confusion within their culture, the country is split into extreme conservative tradition and open minded liberal thought - there really is nothing in between. They don't understand why the two extremes exist and this often leads to rebellion and getting involved in self destructive activities. After being relocated to another country there is even less to identify with or hold onto. After listening to their struggles and experiencing it first hand she has come to understand what they need from her; guidance. IDAI is an interlude for young minds to be free of confusion and find a stomping ground right here on American soil.

Check them out here: Interlude Dance Academy Indonesia

Too Young

Tremendous injustice is occurring all over the world. The most innocent and fragile of living creatures have no voice. Children are making textiles, toys (which they will never play with) and matches, among many other items. We call this Child labor. Child Trafficking is another malicious form of modern slavery. Each day, more children are trafficked into prostitution, forced labor, child marriage and other slavery-like conditions. Each day sees the growth of skills and experience of traffickers and those who purchase trafficked persons. Isn't slavery illegal? I guess not.

In our society we seek the most "delicious" food and at what cost? Do we know at what level of cruelty the farmers reach for particular forms of meat or dairy? Male chicks are useless to egg farms so they are simply plucked up and loaded into a grinder or left in a dumpster to die.

Veal production is also a bi-product of the dairy industry. It's beyond me how this kind of medieval torture is still around? Pulled from their mother immediately after birth, fed an anemic diet in a wooden crate to small to lie down in and then killed after 18 or 20 weeks.

You may ask what can I do about this? Being informed should be your first bit of effort. There are so many resources online for you to peruse. Then avoid companies that use child labor, create artistic works that educate your audiences, avoid cruel farming practices and you'll make a world of difference. All we have is each other to rely upon. It isn't difficult to be compassionate. It's simply difficult to know these ethical issues exist and then not do anything about it!