Skybetter’s THE PERSONAL

Sydney Skybetter’s THE PERSONAL is a set of four solos danced to lieder of Schubert and Schumann using recordings of the late, lamented tenor Fritz Wunderlich. Rather than having them danced in succession, Sydney has interpolated the solos between ensemble works. Similar in style, each solo derives its unique character from the beauty and expressiveness of the individual dancer. The first solo is danced by Sydney himself (above and below).

Kristen Arnold (above)

Kristen

Kokyat’s different take on Kristen’s solo.

The newest solo of THE PERSONAL was created for Gary Schaufeld.

Gary dancing as the light began to stream into the studio.

Gary’s solo utilizes more space than the other solos in THE PERSONAL where the dancers basically remain on their mark throughout their dance.

Bergen Wheeler’s solo will be the closing work on Skybetter’s programme at Jacob’s Pillow.

At the rehearsal we attended, the reflected evening sun cast a direct beam on Bergen as she moved thru her solo. Kokyat produced a series of illuminated portraits of the dancer:

Bergen Wheeler in THE PERSONAL.

Throughout the rehearsal I was so moved and impressed by Skybetter’s dancers – even though by now I should be accustomed to what they can do – and by the poetic quality of Sky’s choreography.

skybetter & associates will be at the DanceNOW festival on September 8th.

All photos by Kokyat.