CHANGE

Art has the power to change perceptions, and bring any kinds of issues to the light. The news we see on television or internet is usually biased and it takes a lot more research to figure out what makes sense and what does not. Art is not only pleasing to the eye but it makes people think about ideas with a different eye and provokes realizations. Growing up I have had the privilege to practice dance as a form of art, it has taught me discipline, vulnerability, and taught me a different way to think. As I started competing and traveling to perform, I noticed that there were barely any minorities in the competitions and dance recitals I attended. I felt extremely out casted and I figured out why this happens. Children who go to inner city schools, usually do not have access to art programs because the schools simply do not have the funds to provide. On the other hand, children who go to private schools have the opportunity to experience these programs due to the economic stability/surplus that their parents have. Minorities that live in inner cities usually have parents who work two to three jobs to support the basic needs, therefore the urgency for introducing their kids to dance lessons or theatre is not a priority. It is so important for all kinds of children to be exposed to dance/art because not only is it a great way to express themselves, but to also increase their creative thinking.
       
      I have created a dance that shows the representation of a social and economic barrier and the yearning for change. In the piece I represent the yearning for change and my partner represents the barrier. The choreography is original, although it has some of Alvin Ailey and Katherine Dunham technique. I chose to incorporate the style of these two artists because they were brave choreographers who tried to show their art to the world, regardless of the racism and economic barriers they had to face. They paved the path for African Americans, and other minorities to be courageous and not be afraid to challenge social norms in the dance world. I took my personal experiences and tried to express them in this dance, and hopefully it gets the message across and my art affects anybody who watches it.

CHANGE.
Song: Into You by Kwabs
Choreography: Genesis Hidalgo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZ_EimnrKvM