Here is my final performance video from my time at the Mudhouse Residency this past June 2022. It only took me half a year, but better late than never!
Music: Candice Wu
Dance: Candice Wu, Phoebe-Agnes (second section),
Dancers: Mudhouse Residency June 6th, 2022, Group 1
About the Piece:
This is an improvised movement and musical performance piece. Both the dance and music represent my journey and experience throughout the residency navigating curiosity, self-doubt, and self-release.
Musically, there are 3 distinct scenes that are laid out. The intro has a sense of excitement yet hesitance. Though I was really happy to be there, my imposter syndrome quickly consumed my first couple of days while I was there. The middle section sounds more free-spirited and open, like my ears were finally open and listening. I found myself hearing the words of advice from my peers and the voice of the village clearer as I shed the insecurities that were holding me back creatively and mentally. The ending is a whole jam session where all our voices are mixed together with the village and each other. After I was able to embrace myself and my surroundings, I was able to fully immerse myself in the experience, with the people, and with my art.
The Process and Inspiration:
I composed and recorded the music based on structured improvisation. Everything that inspired and pushed me to create is included in the music and dance, from foley sounds taken from the lovely village of Agios Ioannis to everyday conversations and late-night jam sessions with my fellow residency friends. The movement is improvised based on the music, the structure and flow of the buildings in the village, and the surrounding nature. Phoebe-Agnes, a fellow dancer and artist at the residency joins in towards the end and we dance a piece she taught us during the dance class she held, and everybody who wants to wiggle with us is asked to join in at the end. It was such a magical moment that still feels simultaneously surreal yet so real to me.
I'm so glad to have made the connections I made and to have had the privilege to have been able to create art in such a beautiful and magical place. The villagers were welcoming and kind from the start and my fellow residency friendos were so talented and inspiring. I can't thank everybody enough for their unintentional and intentional words of advice and guidance! This experience has been so life-changing, and it'll always be something that grounds and inspires me now. To many more creative adventures!
Instagram: @candice_x9
12 сен 2024
