the modern dance awareness society

portable

despinasophia — Tue, 17 May 2011 15:26:54 +0000

if you are in Times Square come by and check out portable

Anita’s Way
the through block connecting W 42nd and W 43rd Street
between Broadway and 6th Ave

Wednesday, May 18, 12:30 – 1:30pm
Thursday, May 19, 6:30 – 7:30pm

portable is a moment of unity, where through simplicity and timeless repetition we create a shared language- a diversity in unison.

this work was supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

portable

despinasophia — Sat, 07 May 2011 04:31:42 +0000

call for participants/ performers of all backgrounds
we are interested in a diversity of physical performers, dancers, artists.

portable is a dance that is a celebration of the physical at a meditative pace near Times Square.

conceived and directed by
despina sophia stamos in collaboration with christina andrea and mdas
We will perform “portable” on May 18th from 12:30p to 1:30p and May 19 6:30-7:30 pm.

The modern dance awareness society brings attention to the presence of the human form amid a concrete cavern in Times Square.
portable involves a large cast of dancers that stretch across the stage-a line of bodies between 42nd and 43rd st. It’s a tapestry of bodies in the process of sharing a sensory oriented state that begins with a mesmerizing, time-shifting unison ritual.The audience has the opportunity to watch from multiple perspectives including a live cam view that is projected on the wall opposite the stage area. Toward the end, they are gently invited to join. The work is a celebration of the uniqueness of the individual, the “ i”, the “1” the essence as it relates to the whole. It is a living fabric of community made of diverse threads that are a metaphor for our similarities and our individual complexities and differences.

portable is a moment of unity, where through simplicity and timeless repetition we create a shared language- a diversity in unison. The participants function as a community where each individual can set, maintain or surpass her/his own limits and boundaries. A mirror of ourselves through the eyes of another, an entrancing and peaceful parade of bodies sharing a common sense, the tactile. Literally, a ritually minimalistic antidote for the modern, competitive, fast-paced society, that daily assaults our deepest sensitivities, cravings and even alters the heart beat of our inner universe.

portable is a reminder, an effort to peel away the excess, the layers of social persona to reveal our own exceptional core that always exists in each one of us. portable ignites a human spark in a concrete environment- a pause in the chaos.

this work was supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

mdas will be conducting two rehearsal/workshops for portable. this work begins in a group ritual that evolves for the duration of one hour.
we will be working off a single form/phrase which we will post online before the workshop.
rehearsal/workshop will be scheduled via Doodle calendar after you contact us.
contact- despina at despinasophia@hotmail.com
or call 212-629-0701

Friday May 13th between 2-8 pm and Monday May 16th 12-8pm.
rehearsal/workshop will be held in the space in 2 hour intervals.

dance and mirror neurons
http://vimeo.com/11164823
http://vimeo.com/11165381
m neuron research
http://blog.ted.com/2010/01/04/the_neurons_tha/the form phrase is based on these meridians.

repeating the phase tickles these meridian points
heart, pericardium, gallbladder, small and large intestine and lung.
this is the basis of the form/prase.
one point is to energize our depth, by tracing our depth as we roll up and down our spines, each time experiencing the sensation of depth stimulation.

http://www.sri.new-planet.net/Meridian_System.php

Heart Meridian (H) Yin:

The Heart meridian stands for the blood vessels (Arteries), for the oxygen supply of the body and for emotional pressure and stress (accepting or rejecting people).
Localization
The heart – meridian has nine points and starts underneath the axilla fold at the external side of the chest muscle. Here the H1 surfaces. H runs along the inside of the upper arm and the lower arm, over the wrist to end at the inner fingernail corner of the little finger.
Symptoms
The heart meridian reacts to its oxygen supply and metabolic situation and therefore displays the energy of the heart muscle.

GALLBLADDER MERIDIAN (GB) YANG:

The bile detoxifies and eases the burden on the body. In the head, this has an influence on the brain, the eyes as well as the ears. Psychologically the gallbladder is connected to rage and anger.Localization

The Gallbladder-Meridian connects 44 points. It starts lateral of the corner of the eye, moves in a zigzag line over the temple and skull, along the side of the neck and the lateral torso down to the abdomen. GB then continues along the exterior of the leg and the foot and reaches its termination on the outside corner of the nail of the fourth toe (GB 44).

Symptoms

The Gallbladder is easily irritated psychologically, as can be demonstrated by ultrasound examination. It also is closely related to eye problems, migraine and tinnitus. Disturbances of the GB and the bile ducts are frequently the primary cause of many chronic health problems such as migraine, headache, eye diseases, ear and nose problems, such as sinusitis. Toxins such as heavy metals, mercury, pesticides, insecticides, food additives, colours and preservatives, as well as viruses (hepatitis and herpes), have a tendency to accumulate in the bile.

Psychological pressure and stress, such as anger, irritation, feelings of being annoyed and frustration weaken the flow of the energy in the gallbladder and bile, and also in the liver.

PERICARDIUM MERIDIAN (P) YIN:

The Pericardium as the “Master of the Heart” stands for the cardio-vascular system, not only representing blood pressure ad blood circulation (warmth of hands and feet) but also a person’s positive affirmation of life. The libido is closely linked with this affirmation. Psychologically it reflects “perceiving Life as Pressure”.Localization
The Pericardium-Meridian starts lateral of the nipples at P 1, runs along the lower edge of the shoulder to the inner upper arm and then in a rather straight line along the lower arm to the wrist (P 7). From here it continues over the palm of the hand to of the inner corner of the nail of the middle finger and ends at the fingertip under the nail (P 9).

SMALL INTESTINE MERIDIAN (SI) YANG:

The SI represents not only the mucous membrane of the small intestines, but also the mucous membranes of the nose and the throat area. Here is also the impact zone of food allergies. Important for the health of the mucous membranes is a physiological flora consisting of friendly bacteria rather than fungi and parasites. Psychologically SI relates to digesting emotional and mental demands and pressures.
Localization
The small intestine – meridian connects 19 points. It possesses “the power of transformation” – uptake of food and converting it into energy. SI has particular effects on mucous membranes and is especially important for most of the illnesses having a strong nervous component, such as rheumatic complaints, toothache and illnesses of the abdomen.
SI starts at the exterior of the little finger, runs along the outside of the arm to the shoulder blade, then in a zigzag line to the neck, the cheek and ends at the ear.
Symptoms
The Small Intestine meridian represents the mucous membranes and in particular its bacteria population. It has a close relationship with the sinuses. Billions of organisms live in symbiosis in the small intestine, their metabolism requires energy.

LUNG MERIDIAN (Lu) YIN:

The lung represents the bronchi, the immune system (protection from infections), allergies and the skin. Psychologically it stands for communication problems.

Localization

The Lung meridian is the “Master of the Respiration”, therefore its acupuncture points are used for illness of the lung, the respiratory system and the heart. Its eleven points begin in the third intercostal space. The meridian runs on the inside of the arm over the thumb to its terminal point on the exterior of the thumb (In the EAV model this point represents the lymphatic system, which is not in accordance with the meridians as laid down in TCM!).

Symptoms

The lung meridian also represents the oxygen content of the body, is associated with the skin and shows reactions if allergies and heavy metal toxicity are present. The Lung meridian controls the exterior of body and all the Yin-Meridians. It reacts most sensitive to harmful external influences (such as wind). Discords of the lung normally relate to a lack of Yin.

The Lung meridian has a close relationship with the meridians of the heart and circulatory system. It runs through the diaphragm and connects with the Large Intestines in the abdomen. The meridians of Lung and
Large Intestine traditionally form a Yin-Yang pair.

A disturbance in the thorax (the lungs) can cause a disturbance in the abdomen (in Stomach, Liver, Gallbladder, Bladder, Pancreas) and in the pelvis area (Intestines, Kidneys, Prostate) and vice versa.
Large Intestine Meridian – LI – YANG

L indicates disturbances of bowel movements and of the lymphatic system of the intestines. It often points to toxicity build up in the intestines (toxins, heavy metals etc.). A psychological correlation is avoiding connections and fear of loss.Localization

The LI meridian connects 20 points. It begins at the nail corner of the index finger (side of the thumb), runs along the top of the arm to the shoulder joint (Li 16) and over the lateral neck and the lower jaw to the lateral side of the nose. The Large Intestine meridian represents teeth and jaws, skin and mucous membranes.

Symptoms

The LI represents the quality of its mucous membranes, its intestinal flora and bowel movements, but also infections, toxicity and focus formation of teeth. In the large intestine billions of microorganisms live in symbiosis. Their metabolism must be supplied with energy.

Disturbances of LI are frequently connected with a chronically pathogenic microflora (caused by fermentation of food in the intestines) and/or dysbiosis (altered intestinal flora). Underlying causes are often a disturbance of the acid/alkaline balance of the body, medications (antibiotics, laxatives), wrong diet and food allergies, environmental toxins and psychological stress. Stimulating Li 11 with the Pain-box has a harmonizing and immune-strengthening effect. A dysbiosis of the large intestines can adversely affect Gallbladder and Liver.

1:1 please remove shoes

despinasophia — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 20:12:41 +0000

please stop by and join us! as we explore the latest development of 1:1 please remove shoes.

happening at 112 West 44th St, on September 29, 30 and October 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7.

this installation runs 5:45-7:45 pm. please feel free to stay for any length of time.

1:1 please remove shoes is an interactive, multi-media performance installation that conjures the visual, the kinetic and while sourcing the experiential- It is conceived as a self sourcing environment where the dance is informed by the space and its inhabitants- spectators influence performers-a self referencing loop inviting the spectator to engage.

This month, as we remember and memorialize the events of September 11, 2001, this performance is intended to shift our focus from the clashing of our differences to our interrelatedness, shedding light on the joys and surprises of trusting one another.

cast: Cecilia Fontanesi, Bianca Falco, Danika Holoviak, Storme Sundberg,Emily Peck, Yina Ng, Josh Bisker, Despina Stamos and special guest artists TBA.

this event is free for the public!
1:1 please remove shoes is made possible by in part with public funds from the Manhattan Community Arts Fund, supported by New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and administered by Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. We are also receiving support from Chashama and donors like you!

fall updates 2010

despinasophia — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 04:48:32 +0000

I have returned from Greece with lots of wonderful inspiration from our project there. I am always so moved by the people we work with in Athens. The courage and generosity of the participants fills me with gratitude and awe; gratitude to have the opportunity to meet these lovely people and awe over their strength of spirit!

Many exciting events coming up!

Please join us on Friday, September 19th, for a screening of passTRESpass 2009 at Zora Space in Brooklyn. The event is called

Migration: The Question of our Times. September 19TH, 7:30PM

Border crossing and migration are issues that confront societies worldwide, both rich and poor. Author and professor Behzad Yaghmaian (Embracing the Infidel) leads a program of film and discussion on the topic. He will recount stories from Muslim migrants who make the treacherous journey to Europe from places such as Iran, Turkey, and Sudan. The premiere screening of the half-hour documentary passTRESpass introduces immigrants from Africa, Afghanistan, and Albania trying to create a life in Greece. They express their pain and difficulties through movement and spoken word in a show performed for an Athens audience. Choreographer Despina Stamos, who instigated the performance and appears in the film, along with the film’s director, Jill Woodward, will be present for an informal discussion and Q/A following the screening.

passTRESpass

“The International population must move”.

Tens of thousands of immigrants and refugees make their way across the porous borders of Greece every year. They come from all over Africa, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. Despina Stamos, a Greek American dancer, connects with a diverse group of immigrants in Athens and proposes a community dance performance. The process gives them a rare opportunity to express themselves regarding issues such as racism, being treated as criminals, and living without papers. Although the performers must work around language complications and other challenges, eventually a composition is presented to an Athens audience. Their collaboration bridges communities from four continents and culminates in an experience that will touch their lives profoundly. In English, French, and Greek with English subtitles. Featuring the Modern Dance Awareness Society.

Park Slope, Brooklyn

(F to 9th street/4th Ave, M/R to Union Street)

$5 suggested donation, cafe open with refreshments that can be purchased.

————————–

Please join us at 3rd Ward on Sept. 11th!

Rubulad and 3rd Ward Present:

On Saturday, September 11, 2010
Pre-Hysteria – a fund-raiser to help save Rubulad from extinction
At 3rd Ward – 195 Morgan Avenue at Stagg Street
live music by:
Les Sans Culottes
Lily and the Parlour Tricks
Thomas Francis Takes His Chances
The WoWz
With your dj/soundman Cody
DJs:
The Vintage DJ
DJ Dirty Finger
Reagonomics
and more..

in the yard:
Not Waving, but Drowning
Jessica Delfino
Bradford Reed and his Pencilina
with your DJ/soundman Greything

performances by:
Zero Boy
Fairytale Experiment Presents: Shadow/Play
The Jared Whitham Show
Modern Dance Awareness Society
“Blow,” a performance by Vanessa and Yung
plus:
Aerialists curated by Anya Sapozhnikova
Dreams and Aspirations Vending Machine by Yung
G. Scopitronic’s Non-Stop Film Fest
Light Circus Extraordinaire of Norm Francoeur
Delicious Barbecue
and a cast of thousands who have generously donated their time and
talents to help S.O.S. – save our space!
“Pre-hysteria” refers to all things dinosaur-ish, stone age or of the
terminal, way-back past. Please dress and comport yourselves
accordingly.
Your $20 will help ensure the existence of Rubulad for 65 million more
years to come.
Directions: L Train to the Morgan Avenue stop and follow the address
numbers or to the Montrose Avenue stop, down Messerole and left on
Morgan.
10:00 pm doors, 11:00 pm show. 21+ w/ ID, really.
We are guests of 3rd Ward so no BYOB please.

Athens, Gr. Proximity presented at 15th annual anti-racist festival

despinasophia — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 11:03:45 +0000

Proximity creates an opportunity for immigrants and Greek locals to learn about each other and to dance together for a moment at the festival. We continue through July 11th.

PROXIMITY ΕΓΓΥΤΗΤΑ PROXIMITÉ Yakınlık Kalapitan Близост Близость Afërsia قرب निकटता PROXIMIDAD PROXIMIDADE PROSSIMITÀ PROXIMITATE

μια performance με αφορμή το 15ο Αντιρατσιστικό Φεστιβάλ
9-10-11 Ιουλίου 2010, Άλσος Γουδή (είσοδος από Κατεχάκη)

Θέλουμε να τους βοηθήσουμε, έχουμε δοκιμάσει τα φαγητά τους, έχουμε ψωνίσει απο τους πάγκους τους αλλά σπάνια έχουμε την δυνατότητα να τους συναντήσουμε και να τους γνωρίσουμε από κοντά, να τους γνωρίσουμε σαν πρόσωπα που έχουν μια ιστορία και μπορούν να τη διηγηθούν.

Η ομάδα ELANADISTIKANOUME και η χορογράφος της ομάδας The Modern Dance Awareness Society (Ν.Υ.), Despina-Sofia Stamos, σε συνεργασία με μετανάστες performers, δημιούργησαν στα πλαίσια του Αντιρατσιστικού Φεστιβάλ, τις συνθήκες ώστε να γίνει αυτή η συνάντηση.

Θα καλέσουν και τις 3 μέρες, 8.30-10.30μμ τους επισκέπτες του Φεστιβάλ, να συμμετέχουν σε ένα δρώμενο που θα βρεθούν στο ίδιο τραπέζι με ένα μετανάστη ο καθένας, να επικοινωνήσουν άμεσα μαζί του, να μοιραστούν κάποιες στιγμές και αν το επιθυμούν να χορέψουν μαζί του.
Συμμετέχουν:
Mohammad Anwar Hossain
Ahmet Seho
Sedat Hayta
Eddy Waziri
Alphonso Thiaby
Abdul Hussain Nazari
Kozeta Myzequari
Despina – Sofia Stamos
Arhond Giannopoulos

Ολυμπία Σωτηροπούλου

Ιωάννα Ρεβίθη

Βίκη Βασιλοπούλου

Παναγιώτης Ανδρονικίδης

updates 2010

despinasophia — Mon, 24 May 2010 22:56:35 +0000

so many travels, so many shows

MDAS created multiple performances for Rubulad this year including, mother goose gone BAD, bunnies hopalong and a revisit of product x.

we were also joined by Phillipa Kaye, Bianca Falco, Jill Woodward, Rob Stupay, Cecilia Fontanasi, Rachel Dutra, Jodi Bender and Geo Geller for a site specific roaming performance at the Gaga Arts Festival in Garnerville NY a few weeks ago!

At the moment, I am preparing to go to Athens for a performance installation with the lovely immigrants I had the pleasure of working with last year. This project will be a collaboration with the participants and Panagiotis Andronikidis. The performance will happen at the entrance of the 15th annual anti-racist festival of Athens on July 9, 10 and 11th. We are still raising money to make this happen.

I am also working on 1:1 please remove shoes for October which will be made possible by chashama and a grant from the LMCC! Hooray institutional support!

september 2009

despinasophia — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 02:23:05 +0000

modern dance awareness society

two chances next week to catch us

Monday September 21^st —Chashama gala benefit 6-9 and after party 9-11pm

in the new public art alley- Anita’s Way on 42^nd St. between 6^th and Broadway.

Despina Stamos and Toby Billowitz in Cabbage Salad and blindate every half hour.

super exciting!

join us

****Thursday, September 24^th—

at 7:30-8 and again after the Rembetika, Smyrneika and Entehna music performance in the historic Queens Theater in The Park

as we explore the latest development of 1:1 please remove shoes.

http://www.facebook.com/queenstheatre

Thursday, September 24

EROS TAXIMI

An evening of uniquely arranged Rembetika, Smyrneika and Entehna music.

8PM, Tickets $25

1:1 PLEASE REMOVE SHOES

Choreographer: mdas, the modern dance awareness society, founded by Despina Sophia Stamos

Pre- and Post-Show Performances 7:30PM and 9:30PM, Free event

Hope to see you there!

xoxo

despina

passTRESpass part 1

despinasophia — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 19:16:55 +0000

passTRESpass part 2

despinasophia — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 19:15:29 +0000

passTRESpass part 3

despinasophia — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 19:13:54 +0000

the modern dance awareness society

portable

if you are in Times Square come by and check out portable

Anita’s Way the through block connecting W 42nd and W 43rd Street between Broadway and 6th Ave Wednesday, May 18, 12:30 – 1:30pm Thursday, May 19, 6:30 – 7:30pm portable is a moment of unity, where through simplicity and timeless repetition we create a shared language- a diversity in unison.

portable

1:1 please remove shoes

fall updates 2010

Migration: The Question of our Times. September 19TH, 7:30PM

Athens, Gr. Proximity presented at 15th annual anti-racist festival

updates 2010

september 2009

passTRESpass part 1

passTRESpass part 2

passTRESpass part 3