Three questions with David Justin

By Jeanne Claire van Ryzin
AMERICAN-STATESMAN ARTS WRITER
Thursday, January 17, 2008

Combining intimate live chamber music with original stagings of short contemporary ballet works, American Repertory Ensemble has carved a niche for itself on the Austin arts scene with its vibrant, polished programs. Artistic director David Justin, who also performs and choreographs in the company's newest show "Winter Tryst," took a moment to talk about some of the pieces in the show.

American-Statesman: What was the initial image or idea that kick-started the creative process of your new piece 'Imagine That,' which is set to solo piano music by Franz Liszt?

David Justin:"Imagine That" is a dream of simpler times. The characters are caricatures from a theatrical era of pantomimes, slapstick humor and naive innocence. I was drawn to the idea that people do not always see each other for who they really are. We are distracted by possessions and stereotypes. But what happens when those things are lost or removed, when we have an opportunity to see each other with clarity? I like to think that is where love lives. This piece is about sweet, innocent love. I started from that and wanted to find simple comedic themes or gags to represent our obsessions. This is a work the whole family will appreciate, from grandchild to great-grandmother.

You're performing in James Kudelka's 'Soudain, l'hiver dernier,' a duet for two men set to Gavin Bryars' stunning musical collage, 'Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet.'

Performing this work by James is a very special privilege for me. His work has always touched my sense of artistry and musicality. "Soudain" asks the dancer to go to a very deep and honest place in his soul and share it with the audience. To have that opportunity again is something I thought I had seen the last of. I thought I was for all intents and purposes retired from performing dance on stage. And especially dance by any of the great choreographers I worked with while I was a principal dancer. "Soudain" is about two homeless people who help each other through life with dignity and support. It was created in 1987 and others have associated the work with the AIDS crisis of that time. Regardless of how you want to characterize it, the work is timeless in its relevance to the fact that people need each other.

You're dancing in, choreographing and directing this show. Doesn't that get a little a crazy?

Yes, it is crazy, and not my preferred way to work. I am always looking for balance, and wearing this many hats is not ideal. I could not do it without being surrounded by such an amazing group of dancers, musicians, designers, choreographers and technicians. I hope my contribution to each part does justice to their efforts and talent.

'Winter Tryst' plays 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday. McCullough Theatre, UT campus, 23rd Street and Robert Dedman Drive. $12-$22. 762-4125, www.americanrepensemble.org.