Date: September 11, 2021
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Montclair, NJ
Dance Is Back in NJ!
After transitioning to a virtual format in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dance on the Lawn triumphantly returned to its in-person setting in 2021, celebrating its eighth year as Montclair’s premier outdoor dance festival. This year’s festival featured a diverse lineup of performances from both New Jersey and New York dance communities, reaffirming its commitment to increasing exposure to dance by bringing professional and emerging companies, plus students of dance from around New Jersey together in a community setting that is free and open to the public.
Top Performers and Choreographers Shine at In-Person Festival
New Jersey Dance Schools
- Sharron Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts
A Montclair-based institution dedicated to providing comprehensive dance education to students of all ages. - DanceWorks Studios
Known for nurturing young talent and offering diverse dance programs in New Jersey. - Movement Arts Project/Dance for Joy
Focused on fostering a love for dance through innovative choreography and performance opportunities. - Maurice Chestnut + Movement Therapy
A tap ensemble led by renowned dancer Maurice Chestnut, blending traditional tap with contemporary rhythms.
New Jersey Professional Companies
- Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company
A company that fuses traditional Chinese dance with contemporary choreography, creating a unique cross-cultural experience. - Inimois Dance
Known for its expressive performances that explore human emotions and connections through movement.
Emerging Commissioned New Jersey Choreographer
- Amber Sloan
Selected as the 2021 Emerging Commissioned New Jersey Choreographer, Sloan presented original work that showcased her innovative approach to dance.
New York Professional Company
- 277 Dance Project
Led by choreographer Nicole Philippidis, this company is recognized for its dynamic performances that blend various dance styles.
Special Performance
- Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s Chalvar Monteiro and Jacquelin Harris
The duo performed excerpts from Merce Cunningham’s “Landrover,” adding a distinguished highlight to the festival. Monteiro, a Montclair native, returned home for this special performance, marking his first appearance since joining Alvin Ailey.
Dance Event Highlights
Return to Live Performances
The 2021 festival marked a significant milestone as it returned to live, in-person performances after the previous year’s virtual event. This return was celebrated by both performers and audiences, emphasizing the resilience and enduring spirit of the dance community.
Diverse Lineup
The festival continued its tradition of presenting a diverse array of dance styles and performers, from local dance schools to internationally acclaimed professionals. This diversity provided audiences with a rich and varied dance experience, reflecting the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and artistic excellence.
Special Recognition
In 2021, Dance on the Lawn was honored with a Community Grant Award from The Masterwork Music and Art Foundation, recognizing its contributions to the arts and the community.
Event Safety & Returning to Live Performances
After a fully virtual festival in 2020, Dance on the Lawn returned to an in-person format in 2021, bringing back the energy of live performances and community gatherings. While this transition was an exciting milestone, outdoor dance events come with unique safety considerations for performers, organizers, and attendees.
Considerations for Outdoor Dance Performances
Unlike traditional stage performances, outdoor dance festivals require careful planning to ensure the safety and well-being of dancers and audience members. Some of the biggest challenges include:
- Stage & Surface Conditions: Outdoor performances often take place on temporary stages or grassy areas, which can pose slipping, tripping, or stability issues for dancers. Uneven surfaces increase the risk of sprains, fractures, or falls.
- Weather Factors: Sudden rain, heat, or humidity can affect stage traction and lead to slippery conditions, dehydration, or heat exhaustion for dancers performing under direct sunlight.
- Audience Safety: Large crowds gathering in open spaces require clear pathways and crowd management strategies to prevent accidental injuries, trips, or falls.
- Equipment & Setup Risks: Outdoor performances rely on temporary lighting, sound systems, and props, all of which must be properly secured to avoid accidents during high-energy routines.
Injury Awareness & Legal Considerations
Even with the best precautions, accidents can still happen at live performances. Whether it’s a dancer experiencing an injury due to unsafe conditions or an attendee getting hurt at the event, knowing your rights and responsibilities in these situations is important.
- Performers should be aware of liability waivers and injury protocols in case of an accident.
- Event organizers must ensure staging and audience areas are properly maintained and safe for use.
- Attendees should be mindful of walking areas, stage proximity, and weather conditions while enjoying the event.
If an injury occurs due to unsafe conditions at a public event, understanding the legal aspects of liability can be essential. For more information on injury-related legal guidance, its best to consult with a personal injury lawyer.
Conclusion
The 2021 Dance on the Lawn festival not only marked a return to live performances but also reinforced its role as a vital platform for dance in New Jersey. By featuring a blend of emerging talents and established artists, the festival continued to foster a deep appreciation for dance within the community.
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