Date: September 10, 2016
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Montclair, NJ
Overview
By its third year, Dance on the Lawn had already become a highly anticipated annual event in Montclair, New Jersey. The festival continued its mission of bringing professional, emerging, and student dancers together for a free outdoor community celebration of movement and expression.
The 2016 edition of Dance on the Lawn featured a diverse mix of dance companies, solo performers, and local talent, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to making dance accessible and providing a platform for artists at all stages of their careers.
One of the key highlights of 2016 was the selection of Kyle Marshall as the Emerging Commissioned New Jersey Choreographer, a recognition that helped further his career in contemporary dance. The festival also introduced an open rehearsal in the spring, allowing the public a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process leading up to the big event.
As the festival continued to grow, it attracted hundreds of attendees who gathered on the lawn of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, transforming it into an open-air stage where dance could be enjoyed in a welcoming, relaxed setting.
Meet the Performers: Dance Companies and Choreographers
Kyle Marshall – Selected as the 2016 Emerging NJ Choreographer, Kyle Marshall presented a new original work developed for the festival.
New Jersey Dance Companies – A variety of dance groups and student performers from across the state participated, showcasing a mix of contemporary, modern, and classical styles.
New York-Based Guest Artists – The festival continued its tradition of bringing established New York dance companies to perform alongside New Jersey artists, fostering cross-regional artistic exchange.
Each of these performers contributed to a vibrant and engaging program, offering audiences a taste of both up-and-coming talent and seasoned professionals.
The Best Moments from NJ’s Free Dance Festival
Kyle Marshall’s Emerging Choreographer Debut
- As part of the Emerging NJ Choreographer Commission, Kyle Marshall received mentorship and funding to create a brand-new dance piece, which was performed live at the festival.
- This initiative was a key component of Dance on the Lawn’s mission to support and uplift local choreographers, giving them a valuable platform to share their work.
Open Rehearsal in May 2016
- A special open rehearsal was held on May 14, 2016, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.
- This event gave the community an exclusive preview of Kyle Marshall’s creative process.
- Attendees were able to engage with the artists, ask questions, and learn more about the choreographic journey leading up to the festival.
Community Engagement & Growing Attendance
- Hundreds of people attended the festival, reinforcing Dance on the Lawn’s place as a beloved Montclair tradition.
- Local schools and dance academies continued to participate, expanding the festival’s outreach to young dancers.
- The event fostered a strong sense of community, bringing together artists, families, and dance enthusiasts from across New Jersey and beyond.
Conclusion
The 2016 Dance on the Lawn festival further solidified its reputation as an important cultural event in Montclair. With the introduction of an open rehearsal, an increasing number of performers and attendees, and the continued support for emerging choreographers, the festival remained a beacon for artistic expression and community engagement.
As Dance on the Lawn entered its third year, it was clear that this annual event had become a key part of Montclair’s arts scene, offering an inclusive space for dancers to perform and for audiences to experience the beauty of dance—free of charge.
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