Artistic Director and choreographer Wendy Jehlen (FY12 Choreography Fellow) has a remarkable capacity to synthesize multiple forms into a uniquely compelling work. This Saturday at BU Dance Theater, she has an upcoming performance of The Knocking Within, inspired by research into the neuroscience of sleep and the anthropology of dreams. The Knocking Within weaves a portrait of two lovers and the nightmares that plague them, unveiling their insecurities, their fears and the violence that lies just beneath the surface. From Capoeira, Kalaripayattu, Bharata Natyam, West African dance, to a wide range of Contemporary dance forms, this performance promises to be stunning.
What’s the best/worst day job you’ve ever had?
Worst – waitressing. By far. Best – the one I have now – ASL/English interpreting.
What’s the most surprising response to your choreography you’ve ever received?
I have a friend who said that one of my pieces, Haaa, brought him memories from being in the womb.
How do you know when your work is done?
It never is. Every time a piece is performed, it changes. Every time a piece is rehearsed, new moments emerge. And every audience member brings something unique to the equation.
What do you listen to while you create?
Usually nothing. I almost always work in silence. I am coming out of a long addiction to RadioLab, though. I listen to RadioLab when I run and I have gotten a lot of ideas for narrative and choreography from their stories.
The Knocking Within
Boston University Dance Theater, Saturday, November 10th at 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm, 915 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (entrance on Buick St.)
Image credit: All images courtesy of Wendy Jehlen. Top image from New London, CT, 3/3/2012, The Thirteenth Biennial Symposium on Arts and Technology, “Aesthetics +Creative Pathways”. Multi-Media Concert at Evans Hall. Performance “Lilith” for dance, video, electronics. Wendy Jehlen – choreography, Huang Zhe – visuals, Shanfan Huang (Anikai Dance).
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