Gymnasiums hold a unique place in our collective memory, serving as spaces of triumph, defeat, intensity, and mundanity. Because unpacks how, like gyms, we are simultaneously constant and ever-changing, reflecting on the hopes of youth, the inevitability of endings, and the hard-won beauty of shared experiences. Through an evocative blend of movement and music, Because invites us to experience how memory intertwines fantasy and fact, connecting our stories across time and place. A powerful reminder of who we are and the connections we keep, lose, seek, and rediscover through time, Because is a welcome respite from the divisiveness of the moment, offering an evening of tenderness as beautiful as our very first high school dance… and we hope you are there to make more memories with us.

Because was created by Founder and Professional Company & Mobile Programs Director, Shannon Hummel in collaboration with dancers Nikki Assanti (New York City); Ross Honaker (Seattle, WA); Ammara Shafqat (Harrisonburg, VA); and Keon Washington (New York City) performing to an original score by company composer Hans Bilger (Berlin, Germany).

Tickets: $25 or pay-what-you-can available September 1 by clicking here.

A free grape soda and Twinkies “reception” follows the Friday, October 3 performance.

The Saturday, October 4 performance is followed by the inaugural presentation of a Tribute Reception* Honoring Founder Shannon Hummel. (*Ticketed separately; see details here.)

Because (NYC-Premiere)

Choreography: Shannon Hummel in collaboration with the dancers

Dancers/Collaborators: Nikki Assanti, Ross Honaker, Ammara Shafqat, Keon Washington, with additional contributions by Katie Dean

Original Score by Hans Bilger with source material from Fiona Apple, The Alan Parsons Project, The 1999 College of Wooster Scots Marching Band, and Pink Floyd

Production and Company Manager: Kaitlyn Hawkins