SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) - “From Within and Beyond”, in concept the antithesis of a previous Black Box Series evening of “Improvisation” nonetheless both shows equally mesmerized the audience to their seats, the National Institutes of Arts (NIA) said in a press statement.
The juxtaposition of the talents required to pull off these performing extremes can only be summarized as the “forte” of a NIA dancer or more explicit the NIA artist. This ensemble represents the combined talents of singing dancing, drumming, poetry, visual arts, and drama. The NIA Company truly is the embodiment of a holistic artist.
An evening of Improvisation was presented on February 13, 2021. Viewers got to witness ‘on the spot’ creativity through Improvisation. Dancers and actors had no idea what the stimulus would reveal; a Renaissance image, a proverb, music, a character, a partner, a myriad of possibilities. Contemporary dance alternated with Drama improvisation while interacting with the audience. The audience willingly contributed to the 'chance’ element of the evening.
This showing was masterly concocted by curators Loes Nauta (drama), Peggy Oulerich (contemporary dance) and Jonathan van Arneman (improvisation). Ms. Oulerich eloquently introduced and explained the various sections of the show in English and French for the attendees. An animated question-answer session brought the evening to a satisfying closure. For many in the audience this show format was a new experience, few had before experienced the excitement of an “Improv” performance. Kudos to the performers and curators!
March 13, 2021, brought us the evening of “From Within and Beyond” curated by Eolia Ada, affectionately known as Ms. Beebee. These performances exhibited a detailed choreographed core, requiring technical precision to every musical beat. Technical prowess supported by visual poems performed by former NIA company members currently residing in the Netherlands, song, poetry, drumming and a final video rendition to bring it all together.
The performances depicted the journey to fearlessness and coming into one’s own power, navigating the Arts as the vehicle to: explore, express and overcome obstacles. Connections made in the artistic realm serve as a glue and fuel to keep on going in life. Beyond an entertainment tool Art saves lives and brings people together even if for a limited period of time. As a personal statement Ms. Beebee wanted to communicate that her bond established with the artists within the studio transcends beyond the studio walls. As evidenced by the participation of former members who remain ‘glued’ to the forged bonds “We are building artists but beyond that we are also building better human beings”
March 27, 2021 brings us a Musical program called “Open your heart, open your mouth” curated by Noami Janelle Warsop. We hope to see you there; the show begins at 8:00 pm sharp.
