DNA Presents Sunhwa Chung/Ko-Ryo Dance Theater, 10/17-20

Showcasing its dedication to presenting and supporting the work of International Artists, Dance New Amsterdam (DNA) invites Sunhwa Chung/Ko-Ryo Dance Theater to join the DNA PRESENTS family, October 17-20. Arirang – We Go Beyond the Crossroad, choreographed and directed by Sunhwa Chung, blends traditional Korean dance with contemporary Western forms. The program features live music, composed and performed by Korean Traditional Drummer Vonggu Pak, with accompaniment by violinist Sarang West. The 90-minute performances begin at 7:30 p.m. each night with an additional matinee on October 20 at 3:00 p.m.

Celebrating ten years, Ko-Ryo Dance Theater performs the New York premiere of the autobiographical work Arirang – We Go Beyond the Crossroad. The multi-disciplinary piece explores Chung's attempt to remain close to her roots as she grew beyond her culture, embracing the customs and ideas of another. Chung created the eight-part piece in reflection of her departure from native Korea and her assimilation to the United States. Arirang, the title of the work, refers to arguably the most popular of all Korean folk songs. Guest violinist and collaborator Sarang West and drummer Vonggu Pak will perform the piece's score live at each performance. The eclectic soundtrack also features music by 18 diverse artists, including Pauline Viardot, Hwang Byung-Ki, Danny Elfman, Hwang Sang Jin, Kodo and Stephen Warbeck. Costumes were designed by Meg Kinney and lighting by Miriam Crowe.

"DNA has long included International Artists in both our educational and performance programming, some of whom are now Bessie Award-winners and nominees, and performing at BAM, the Joyce, Lincoln Center, etc" says Artistic and Executive Director Catherine Peila. "Inviting artists to New York and supporting them through our residencies and robust International Student Visa Program reflects our connection to the global development of dance. Sunhwa's work taps into the American immigrant's process of self expression-offering both artists and audience members the opportunity to initiate deeper conversations regarding belonging, cultural integration and innovations."