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2008 Feedback
- I have traveled to Mexico (as well as many other countries and continents) on no less than eight separate occasions over the years. However, the experience of being a tourist in Mexico pales in comparison to the experience I had as a visiting American artist. The Mexican students, faculty and community members, without exception, were extremely warm. Indeed, throughout my time at Performática, I felt like a welcomed and respected guest. And, as such, I was able to make much deeper and more significant connections with those I met than I would have been able to as a tourist.
- Many of the most wonderful moments occurred in the workshops. On occasion, I found myself paired or in groups with people where there was a very real language barrier. But, we were always quick to find that, as dancers, we could speak very clearly to each other with our hands, faces and bodies. The realization that we could communicate easily and comfortably, regardless of our twisted tongues, different ages, cultures, and genders, was surprising and powerful.
- What was overwhelming about Performática was it's clear distinction from other forums and festivals in it's ability to create an atmosphere of equality for all artists to share thoughts and disciplines. There was no hierarchy created by bringing established companies that might otherwise intimidate emerging independent artists. Instead it fabricated a great melting pot of artists with varying aesthetics and backgrounds, who would otherwise not have the opportunity to have their work shown.
- Performática gave me a rare and valuable experience of insight into the power of creative work. I was reminded that dance matters, that bodies moving around an idea have a real impact on those around them. Performática challenged me to think about how we move through and around our differences, how performance and study can bring us together to learn and transform.
- The learning, the interaction, the audience and the special situation in which we all came together, despite huge differences - to use our bodies as means of expression - made me feel that we were all there on the same channel. In Mexico, one is constantly invited to dance, without economic support, given the fact that it is an honor to do it. And, even though most of the times the experience is worth it, it is also difficult to keep on dancing without support. Personally, each scenic experience is different and nourishing. This one was very useful since I gained a perspective on what I was doing, as well as what other people were doing. It reaffirmed my will to continue working, inventing, communicating, and it also inspired me to look for different ways of relating with others, no so much as performer-audience, but as equals, like the relationship between creative beings.
- Now that I have had my first experience of Foro Performática I can honestly say that it was what I dreamed it would be and much more. Culturally it has opened me up as a person, an artist and an educator. The knowledge that was shared amongst artists during this cultural event was immense. Having opportunities to share in daily classes, performances and leisurely discussions about art, philosophy and world issues with people of all ages and cultural backgrounds lends itself to an unforgettable experience that is priceless. I also can not forget to mention how rewarding it was to embrace the cultural richness while exploring as a tourist the historical landmarks of both Cholula and Central Puebla.
- As a director of a youth ensemble, an experience like this is invaluable to the growth of the young dancers. Everyone in attendance was treated with complete respect - young and old, experienced and not experienced. It promoted good will between countries and peoples of all nationalities.
- From the moment I arrived, I was lost in the energy of community and family, in the brightly colored buildings and the unique landscape, all of which Mexico is known for. I believe that all of the artists who arrived from other countries experienced this. It was in this way that we came together, without the pretense or hierarchy from our jobs and home cities. It is immensely important to foster this dynamic and to support it whenever possible. It is exchanges such as this in which the vision of our differences begin to fade to a clearer image of the qualities that we all share.
- I really felt this spirit of "radical generosity" at Performatica. And honestly, that is something I have not felt in myself in a long, long time, as I have moved further away from the dance world. Maintaining that openness is a discipline. So THANK YOU SO MUCH for what you are doing in Cholula and for bringing that awareness back to me.
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