|
|
|
|
WEDDING DRESSES is a presentation that integrates many dimensions of performance, including dance, drama, live music, song and historical costuming. Accompanied by the wedding dresses worn by her five matriarchal predecessors, Tracy Penfield brings these artifacts of women's history together with explorations of cultural traditions, social change and personal psychology. As she becomes each woman in turn, wearing their actual wedding dresses, Tracy breathes life into that individual and also into the culture and history of the era. The piece illuminates the evolution in marital relationships during a period of unprecedented societal flux, from the 1830s to the present, and prompts discussion about primary relationships today. Performance length is 75 minutes, with no intermission. A post-performance discussion with the artists makes a two-period school program. One or two small-group workshops may be scheduled for the same day. This component may include movement, writing and voice activities, in an exploration of family history and/or relationship issues. Tracy and the site coordinator will plan workshop content. To discuss bringing this SafeArt program to your school
or organization, please contact Tracy Penfield at
802-685-3138 |
|
WEDDING DRESSES evokes many moods-humorous, poignant, and resilient. In the words of Rebecca Denton in The Valley News, WEDDING DRESSES reflects "the changing roles of women in our society and the changing role of marriage in women's lives." "In recounting the lives of these women, Tracy examines not only the evolution of her family's history: she presents the universal truths that we all live...It will be wonderful to bring WEDDING DRESSES to Vermont students...allowing them the opportunity to express their personal histories in movement, writing and voice is an effective way to teach tolerance in a culture enmeshed in a struggle to understand ourselves and the 'other.' Tracy is a spirited, exacting, courageous dancer and vocalist. Students will appreciate her bright, engaging and humorous personality." Anne Bergeron
|
|
|
|
|
