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As a fan of Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, I was eager to see Bill T. Jones' new creation, "Serenade/The Proposition," at The Joyce Theater this weekend. Having read about the three part project he is currently working on in honor of Abraham Lincoln's bicentennial, I was curious to see how much such a historically specific topic fit into his regular aesthetic. I am constantly wowed by his ability to fuse a movement vocabulary with theatrical elements. He can creates very intricate worlds on stage. His choreography, costuming, set design, lighting, and direction is always inspirational, unique, and "so bill."
The show was definitively still "so bill," but also different than his regular presentation style. I think more than ever, Mr. Jones chose to be more strict with himself; how he handled, commented on, and interacted with his topic was a bit more reserved and traditionally polite. Although most of the design elements still stood out as interesting and captivating, there remained those that kept alive a less-seen, more subtle, gentle appeal; an orator dressed head to toe in a professional suit, classical music used through most of the piece, and a lucid comment on the connection between history and the memories and moments we experience in the present day. The writings and speeches of Lincoln, as orated by actor Jamyl Dobson, were powerful and well-placed, as well provided a nice pace for the piece. However, I think the piece could have done without Mr. Jones' autobiographical material - the point was clear. An excerpt from Mr. Jones' own writings seemed a bit excessive. The singer standing opposite the orator was also unnecessary. Her voice was often distracting.
As always, the company dancers were amazing. They perform with a heartfelt vigor destined to examine movement, emotion, and communication. Besides the opening series of synchronized entrances and exits that were a bit off, all the choreography was achieved with exactness and commitment. Mr. Jones' best choreographic choices were seen in the duets, trios, and quartets scattered throughout - absolutely breathtaking. I only wish that I get to see the first part of his Lincoln bicentennial project, "Fondly Do We Hope...Fervently Do We Pray" that premiered a few months ago at the Ravinia Festival!
I would like to congratulate to The Joyce Theater for commissioning Bill T. Jones to make "Serenade/The Proposition." The support and presentation of work with such a courageous, mobilizing, and unique quality is exactly what this nation and American public needs. Visit www.joyce.org to see what other companies and programs this Chelsea gem offers.