Who would have thought that the CCP Choreography Series would survive the pandemic? Backed up by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the initiative was meant to nurture choreographers so that they could help materialize their visions. This mentorship program somehow makes the mentors the fairy godmothers of dance. They help the artists' minds; get dressed, with coachmen driving their ideas forward until they arrive at their final destination, a showcase of beauty, intellect passion and creativity. But in this case, there is no magical ball to experience. There is no show to look forward to. What platform could take the place of a physical theater filled to the brim with enthusiastic people? In 2020, they pursued a virtual choreography competition for exploring choreographers. The CCP Choreography Series valiantly pushed for Wifi 2020 Virtual Body.ph to happen with ten artists participating. It was a very bold statement that art is where the heART is. The four walls of the theater were replaced with an open digital space where just about anybody could find you. It was about breaking free and standing your ground as artists.
On it's second phase, the people behind CCP Choreography Series have again accepted the challenge to nurture a new batch of mid-career choreographers with their second tier program the Koryolab. After a year of Covid, people and perspectives have already shifted. It seems, that the Koryolab has recognized the need to respond appropriately. The mentorship can no longer just be about mentoring pieces but rather confronting ideologies of the choreographers. Do they still stand true? are they still aesthetically pleasing to the new pair of eyes who have seen new things? Are they still appropriate or meaningful after all this time? The idea is no longer finding the destination or coming up with a show. Instead it is an invitation to an elaborate labyrinth where the choreographer can find things to ponder about, new techniques they can play with. For 2021, Koryolab takes the form of a virtual residency program focused on fleshing out of ideas. With the presentation of different influences, challenges and techniques, Koryolab seeks to help the choreographers revisit their old pieces, question it, re-appreciate it , refuel it. The objective is not to change anything but to learn how to process ideas, the old, the new , the unique, and the bold. Hopefully, it will give the choreographer's renewed confidence that they can move forward without a map because their destination (idea) is imprinted in their minds and not a singular fleeting moment of performing a piece. Each piece, can grow with you you as you traverse through different roads.
The applications are already open for mid year choreographers and I just cant wait to see who is ready for the challenge. Something good always comes out of the pursuit of progress and process. I cant wait to see what happens inside the zoom.
For those who are interested check out the details below.
Join the process, try something new and watch what can unfold
Criteria for joining:
3 years of experience in contemporary dance choreography
Age: 22 to 40
Has internet accessibility
Displays desire to critique one’s previous body of work for further development
Submit the ff.:
CV
A short introduction video
A short video compilation of works
A video of one work you want to explore further through the residency
An endorsement from any arts council, group or established artist
A 100-word paragraph on how Koryolab will benefit you and your community
DEADLINE: JUNE 30
Apply here:
http://bit.ly/Koryolab2021
Or email us here:
ccpchoreoseries@gmail.com
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