Leverage Dance Theater’s third evening-length dance concert for sacred architecture, Of Matter, Mind & Spirit opens June 7!

In the context of this performance series, Leverage defines “sacred space” as any space that is designated for the purpose of encouraging, inviting or generating ‘spiritual’ connection or experience. We define “spiritual” broadly, "relating to or affecting the human spirit or soul as opposed to the material or physical”. This definition underscores the possibility that human thoughts and emotions lie somewhere between the physical and spiritual, perhaps somewhat close to where art lives.

One of our goals in this performance series is to invite people of distinct and perhaps even historically conflicting traditions into a shared experience of spirituality. By encouraging reflection on spiritual themes through the abstractions of movement and dance, we seek to create meaningful experiences that allow people to focus on shared values and bypass the “specifics” we might disagree on.

Consistent with Leverage’s approach to dance making, this concert series does not take the perspectives of any specific traditions, doctrines or dogma. Instead, this work explores the feelings, experiences, needs and desires that surround sacred spaces and traditions as a way to help people lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.

Of Matter, MInd and Spirit begins outside, and has audiences follow the dancers into the church basement and then throughout the church, ending in one of the choir balconies, changing vantage points to view dances all but the most typical perspective.

Choreographers for this evening-length concert include: Artistic Director, Diana Barrios; former Assistant Director, Keli Brook Hermes; guest artist Marissa Beccard and company members Paige Van Nest, Claire Hilleren & Ramona Johnson.