I teach dance in our Colorado State Prisons with Julie Rada of ACT Ensemble.
Before working with Julie, I worked with The Prison Arts Initiative at The University of Denver (DU PAI). While working at DU PAI, I guided the choreographic process for the performance, If Light Closed Its Eyes, which was directed by Ashley Hamilton.
Here's the trailer for If Light that took place at Sterling Correctional Facility in the summer of 2022.
The Dance Team rehearsing for IF LIGHT closed its eyes. Images by Drummond West.
On November 21st, 2020, DU PAI and the Colorado Department of Corrections presented a virtual showcase, A/LIVE INSIDE, featuring the art work of those who are currently incarcerated in our state, including the dance team mentioned and seen above.
In December, 2020 A/LIVE INSIDE was presented with a 2020 True West Award.
Click here to see a trailer for A/LIVE INSIDE.
The A/LIVE INSIDE film crew included: Director of Photography and Camera Operator: MeiLi Smith. Camera Operator: Stephan Anderson. Editor: MeiLi Smith. Assistant Editor: Stephan Anderson. Assistant to film crew: Angel Lopez.