 She-figured Dance, a contemporary modern company established in 2001, is based between Martha’s Vineyard and Boston. It employs a movement vocabulary that is eclectic, centered on dance athleticism, expresses passion for characterization through movement, and strives for theatrical edge. Incorporating a narrative style that mixes the literal with the abstract, the company’s work exposes human vulnerability and strength.
Artistic director, Jil Matrisciano, deemed "emphatic" by the Boston Herald and co-founders Julie Caranddo and Serena Smith shared their graduate dance experience. After pursuing individual endeavors, the three reunited to blend their creative energies, striking a balanced chord using objectivity and wit to explore personal and sexual identity. Quoted by the Vineyard Gazette, “…they ride a new wave of feminism…giving priority to a place for men and boys to stand….” |
Interested in presenting material that affectively bridges gaps for modern dance audiences is a company consideration. They share a common belief that dance is an artistic expression that can be smart and sharp, but also accessible. As technicians, they explore movement that honors craft while trying to tip the edges of physicality. As artists, they try to interpret life experience with honesty—leaving out the extra additives and preservatives. People are not one dimensional, neither is dance. SfD recognizes that art has many forms, not all cerebral; thus, they incorporate humor while staying true to their intentions. The company’s first home, Martha’s Vineyard, is a unique environment with a revolving culture and naturally euphoric and creative atmosphere. Attracting people from all walks of life, MV became the place where the company chose to nurture its choreographic endeavors. Colorful personalities, dichotomous opinion, and social extremes, all amongst a backdrop that can be surreal at times and almost always novel, made Martha’s Vineyard the magnetic melting pot for the dramatic material that SfD was seeking. |
