Expanding Horizons

GAMBIER, Ohio (September 2, 2004) Art can send a powerful message. Combine it with movement and words and the result can expand horizons. That was the motivation behind The Changing Room, a new dance performance set to be performed this month at the Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio, and at Kenyon.

The work is a collaboration between Assistant Professor of Dance Julie Brodie and Assistant Professor of Art Marcella Hackbardt. The idea began when Hackbardt completed a series of panels that featured medical pictures of a mastectomy surrounded by images of butterflies and leaves on diaphanous fabric panels. The result was a traditionally feminine feel. Thinking that the panels needed movement, Hackbardt joined with Brodie to incorporate them into dance.

The project continued to grow through circles of friendship and collegiality. Brodie's idea of incorporating art, dance, and words exploring women's identity and transitional phases was expanded in discussion with other women on campus. Brodie sees The Changing Room as "a way to expand horizons." Before its first performance, the team says, it has succeeded both in expanding horizons and knitting together women throughout the Kenyon community.

Faculty members from the departments of dance, studio art, and sociology; Kenyon staff members; students; and children of faculty and staff will be involved in the program.

The Changing Room will be performed on Wednesday, September 8, at 6:00 p.m. in the Palm Room at the conservatory. The event will be repeated on Saturday, September 11, at 5:00 p.m. in the dance studio at Kenyon and on Sunday, September 12, at 12:00 noon at the conservatory. The performance at Kenyon is free. Admission to the conservatory is $6.50 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, $3.50 for children ages two through 12, and free for children under two.