Symbolic Movement Choir is an experimental dance ensemble working between the German tanztheater lexicon and the American modern dance legacy. Created by Alishanee Chafe-Hearmon and Fox Conner, the project’s aim is to expand and experiment with modern dance idioms. Manifesting itself from the hauntology of dance, Symbolic Movement Choir draws inspiration from the stoicism, austerity, and sensualism of modern dance pioneers while creating new forms that feel pertinent to the contemporary. The name speaks to the core of the group; symbolic gesture crafted into physical metaphor, focusing on an eloquence of the body, technical discipline as a form of prayer, and researching their own liturgy and litany. Core elements of the work include repetition, opposition and effort. They work closely with artists Alberto Del Saz of the Nikolai/Louis Foundation and former Pina Bausch company member Pau Aran.

Alishanee Chafe-Hearmon (co-creator/choreographer/performer)

Fox Conner (co-creator, choreographer/performer)

Ginjo Sakai (performer/collaborator)

Mayila Khodadin (performer/collaborator)

Angela Fegers (rehearsal director/artistic management)