Syren Modern Dance Company

presented at
Citigroup Theater at the Ailey Studios
405 West 55th Street
New York NY

Amber Henrie
December 8, 2005

Syren Modern Dance Company will be performing at the White Plains Performing Arts Center on March 24th and 25th. Co-founders Kate Mehan and Lynn Peterson opened their third season with new and repertory choreography at the Citigroup Theater in the Ailey Studio, November 4, 2005. The two are by far the superior dancers as displayed in the two duet performances, "Interlude" and "I Go You Go." Mehan and Peterson have passion for their creation and choreography. While they are on the right path, overall the choreography and concert seemed a little like a college dance performance, although the theater and costuming contributed to this "amateur" feel.

The program says "Clarity, Power, Elegance," and while Syren is definitely developing a unique style that remains constant throughout each piece, the movement does not reflect the program's statement. Syren's strongest movement attribute is fluidity. Modern dance companies shouldn't claim to have clarity. There is no clarity in interpretive dance—it is meant to leave viewers to their own opinions. However, "Plain & Simple" is a piece with a clear message. Danced to a variety of Otis Redding songs, each solo dancer declares hopeless, contemptible, and vulnerable love and devotion. It is a fun and energetic dance telling a real story and communicating deep feelings and actions of love with which the audience can connect.

Mehan and Peterson aren't afraid to take risks. They are devoted to their work and tell a story unique to them. Their final piece, "The State," doesn't shy away from a political message. They are creative and inventive in trying new movement. They have a good start on developing a unique ambiance for their audiences. Live music interludes between dance numbers included piano, vocal, and saxophone. The interludes were innovative and extremely enjoyable. Syren Dance Company has three years under their belt and I don't believe this year will be their last.

Visit www.syrendance.org for more details.

Syren Modern Dance Company
Photo courtesy of Casey Quinn

Syren Modern Dance Company
Photo courtesy of Casey Quinn

Syren Modern Dance Company
Photo courtesy of Casey Quinn

Syren Modern Dance Company
Photo courtesy of Casey Quinn