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I happened on to Mt. Tremper Arts on whim. We were up for the weekend in nearby Phoenicia and saw a flyer advertising Brian Brooks Moving Company. Since our normal visits include sleeping in and BBQ’s with my Boyfriend’s family, we were excited to see an arts venue so close by.

The first moment we turned onto the path we were struck by the simple beauty the space commanded. The smells from the garden, the fire pit, the friendly faces, a farmhouse transformed into a simple and clean performance space; suggested that this was a special place. The informal and familial atmosphere was transcendent not only in the space but in Brian Brooks company.

Brian Brooks Moving Company, Rapid Still, at Mount Tremper Arts

I’m Going to Explode, a solo piece with Brian Brooks reminded me of a robotic club dubbed ballet, a progression of movements originating at the shoulder and occasionally finding its way to the rest of the limbs. Mr. Brooks’ lower body traveled in a succession of fourth positions that see. He is a captivating performer, pleasant to watch
and to wonder about. I wish, however, I could have seen a stronger progression or a more varied approach to the way his lower body was moving.

Hands, The moment the group walked on stage and started moving, I was very bothered because I knew there would be little if any movement in the lower body. However, after I sat back, let my eyes relax, and watch the way the light and hands moved to the music. I enjoyed the soothing, voluptuous, trance the ‘hands’ put me in.

Rapid Still, The pentacle of the evening. The final section with the girl being suspended by all the dancers was thrilling and captivating. The work was physical, something that was missing up until that point. This was by far my favorite piece. I still have to say- the use of motif is very evident in his work- I just wish he could have gotten there faster, used more variations on the same idea and moved on- to the next thing. Even with the section when she is walking on hands- vary the speed, move sooner to next points on the body, and reverse the walk.

Overall, a very lovely evening. Happy to have found Mt. Tremper Arts!

I grew up in a tiny town in northern California, not unlike Wookstock. Now, I live in NYC and am a free-lance dancer, personal trainer, and arts administrator.