Wow, #Therealdancething is over and it's been a total pleasure to see what amazing art everyone has created. I've gotten to watch videos and see pictures that show triumph, heartbreak, and the special joy only dance provides.
I have to say, I never expected to have so many people participate in this. Sitting at home has made me feel so isolated. Being able to see so many dancers come together to be so vulnerable has reminded me all the ways we are stronger together. This started off as a small idea I didn't think anyone else would want to do. With my co-facilitators we spent hours honing the challenge, discussing prompts, themes, influencers, ethics, colors, and (I'm sure you can tell) the list goes on. I was ready to give up frequently. It's hard to make something, but it's even harder to make something good.
I want to thank all the dancers who trusted us and shared their first take. It was an honor to watch. I want to give a heartfelt thanks to Kirah and Liila. These two are amazing humans, dancers, and people to take on a big challenge with. Thank you for your time, insights, creativity, and friendship. Also, I want to thank the people in my life who remind me to eat and sleep. They are the real heroes here.
I believe we made something really good. If we do this again (and please don't ask me today, because it would totally be a no right now) I have ideas on ways I want to make it better. One example- I'd love to find ways to translate our prompts into other languages. We used a lot of metaphors which can be tough if English isn't your first language.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this challenge! If you have any feedback, you can email me at athenashimmy@gmail.com or fill out this anonymous survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CLJJDCT
Thank you for going on this journey with us and I can't wait to see what we create together in the future.
Athena