A personal reflection on a former dancer's connection to movement reveals how childhood experiences shape artistic expression. Daniella Ignacio recounts her transition from synchronized skating to musical theater, exploring the emotional and cultural impact of these activities. Meanwhile, choreographer Dana Tai Soon Burgess crafts performances that delve into Asian American identity, using precise yet fluid movements to narrate stories of migration, adoption, and self-discovery. His work resonates deeply with audiences, evoking both nostalgia and introspection about heritage and belonging.

The Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company presents "An Asian American Dance Journey," a trilogy of pieces illustrating pivotal moments in Asian American history. Each segment combines multimedia elements with innovative choreography to convey complex emotions. From Leaving Pusan's portrayal of ancestral departure to Becoming American's depiction of adoption, and Hyphen's exploration of dual identity, the performance encapsulates themes of loss, adaptation, and unity. These works not only celebrate individual narratives but also emphasize the universal language of movement as a means of communication across cultures.

Reconnecting with Movement

Daniella Ignacio reflects on her evolution as an artist, transitioning from synchronized skating during adolescence to embracing expressive forms of dance in adulthood. Though no longer actively performing, she finds solace in occasional winter skating sessions and theatrical appearances. College improvisation classes enhanced her understanding of motion, enabling her to appreciate subtle nuances in body language. Despite lingering apprehension towards rapid-paced routines, Ignacio acknowledges the enduring influence of early training on her creative process.

Growing up in the early 2000s, Ignacio discovered camaraderie at local rinks, surrounded by fellow Asian skaters. This environment fostered confidence, allowing her to embrace freedom through gliding motions. As years passed, however, physical activity diminished, prompting concerns about stagnation. Attending Dana Tai Soon Burgess's concert reignited dormant instincts, reminding her how even slight adjustments in posture or gesture can communicate profound narratives. Inspired anew, Ignacio contemplates reengaging with dance to reclaim lost vitality and authenticity.

Choreographing Cultural Narratives

Dana Tai Soon Burgess employs meticulous techniques to craft compelling tales rooted in Asian American experiences. His modern dance style blends angular precision with fluid grace, creating dynamic contrasts that captivate audiences. Through three distinct compositions, he examines migration, adoption, and hyphenated identities, employing striking visuals and symbolic gestures to enhance storytelling. Each piece invites viewers to ponder shared histories while celebrating unique perspectives within diverse communities.

"Leaving Pusan" honors Burgess's great-grandmother's courageous voyage from Korea to Hawaii, symbolized by poignant interactions with traditional masks and garments. Similarly, "Becoming American" chronicles Katia Norri's journey from orphanhood in Korea to assimilation in New Jersey, incorporating projection technology and haunting soundscapes. Finally, "Hyphen" explores collective struggles and triumphs through abstract movements, juxtaposing tension and harmony. By merging personal anecdotes with broader social contexts, Burgess fosters empathy and understanding among spectators, reinforcing the power of movement as a unifying force transcending linguistic barriers.