In this episode of Talking Arts, host Ben Gougeon welcomes Darrah Carr, the Artistic Director and Choreographer of Darrah Carr Dance, a contemporary Irish step dance company based in New York City. With St. Patrick's Day just around the corner, this conversation is not just festive, but deeply insightful. Ben and Darrah explore the origins and evolution of her dance company, founded in 1998, which brilliantly blends the fast-paced energy of Irish music and dance with contemporary techniques. Listeners will learn about the unique residency Darrah Carr Dance is undertaking in the Quad Cities, where they’ll work directly with K-12 students, offering a behind-the-scenes look at both hard shoe and soft shoe Irish dance styles.
The episode highlights the exciting public performance scheduled for March 13th at the Capitol Theatre, where audiences can expect a vibrant showcase titled "Akali," meaning a house party in Irish. Darrah shares how the performance will celebrate traditional Irish art forms while incorporating live musicians and even moments of audience interaction, making it a truly immersive experience. As Ben and Darrah discuss the nuances of Irish dance and its rich cultural roots, they also touch on the importance of integrating arts education and live performance into schools, emphasizing the transformative power of the arts in inspiring young minds.
Listeners who are curious about the intricacies of choreography, the collaborative nature of dance and music, and the thriving Irish arts scene in New York will find this episode captivating. Darrah's journey from competitive Irish dancer to innovative choreographer is filled with passion and dedication, and her insights on the evolution of dance will resonate with artists and enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that celebrates the art of storytelling through movement and sound, and discover how you can join in the excitement at the upcoming performance!