Feminine experiences through the four seasons is the theme of Wise Fool New Mexico’s Circus Luminous 2017 show that has been conceptualized and directed by performing artist and choreographer Deirdre Morris. “She Shines Brightly” is presented at the Lensic Performing Arts Center during the Thanksgiving weekend.
“It’s a sweet show that follows the cycles of life through natural imagery,” explains Morris, a member of Wise Fool New Mexico who earned her master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Dramatic Arts at the University of California, Davis. “Among the subjects addressed are motherhood, careers and relationships. The show soars with fun and joy, finds grace in aging and wisdom and balances vulnerability with intuition.”
Wise Fool New Mexico, a local nonprofit that has been building grassroots circuses and giant puppet processions in the Santa Fe area for 19 years, has presented a new Circus Luminous show annually at the Lensic since 2003.
True to Wise Fool’s tradition of showcasing a wide variety of circus arts in its Thanksgiving weekend production, the 20-member cast presents exciting aerial acts, stilt walking and plenty of puppets.
“There are some new butterfly, wolf and bird puppets this year that Amy Christian (Wise Fool’s artistic director) and I designed together and Amy built with her team of assistants,” says Morris.
One way that Morris put her unique stamp on the production is by incorporating dance performances into the show. “I’m a dancer, and so I’ve brought dance back to the production,” she adds. “There are a number of dances between transitional moments.”
Jeremy Bleich, who has been working with Wise Fool New Mexico for many years, composed original music that’s performed by a small live band.
Bring the kids to “She Shines Brightly.” It’s a family-friendly show.
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