Staff Reports – Step into the enchanting world of Trillium Arts on July 27, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, as they bring you “Taking Flight”. Delight in an evening of fresh choreography, cinematic wonders, and a special visit from Orion, a majestic barn owl. The event unfolds at The Red Barn Studio, located at 5640 Paint Fork Rd, Mars Hill, NC 28754.
“Taking Flight” marks the grand finale of Trillium Arts’ 2024 ACE (Asheville/Chicago Exchange) Fellowship in Dance, led by Xavier Núñez from the Joffrey Ballet Chicago, and Tim Whalen, the creative mind behind Mates for Live Films. Together with two talented Joffrey Ballet dancers, they’re crafting the next chapter in a dance film series called Mates For Life, inspired by the loyal barn owls.
This event offers a sneak peek at Núñez’s fascinating barn owl choreography, a screening of Whalen’s evocative film “Mates For Life: Whooping Crane,” and a chance to meet Orion, the charismatic barn owl who’s found a home under the care of Carlton S. Burke from Carolina Mountain Naturalists. Delicious appetizers and drinks will be provided, setting the perfect backdrop for an evening of artistic exploration.
To secure your spot at this special event, tickets are available for $30 on the official website at www.trilliumartsnc.org/events. Hurry, as space is limited and advance purchase is recommended for a seamless entry into this artistic spectacle.
The beautiful synergy between avian grace and human expression takes center stage in “Mates For Life,” a series that celebrates the dance in nature. Núñez and Whalen’s collaboration at Trillium reflects their dedication to producing “Mates For Life: Barn Owl,” following the success of their first film inspired by whooping cranes. By delving into the rich tapestry of avian movements and emotions, they aim to shine a light on conservation and the enduring bond between species.
At the core of this project is an appreciation for the barn owl, a truly remarkable species that spans continents and millennia. With a sharp hunting instinct and a winged silence that belies their power, barn owls serve a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. By raising awareness about their habitats and conserving these landscapes, “Mates For Life” aims to inspire deeper conversations about nature and our interconnectedness.
Núñez and Whalen’s vision extends beyond the confines of traditional ballet, bridging the gap between art and the natural world. By blending classical dance with environmental themes, their films seek to captivate a diverse audience and ignite a shared passion for conservation and creative expression.
On the canvas of human history, artists like Xavier Núñez, Tim Whalen, and Carlton S. Burke paint a vivid portrait of dedication and passion. From Puerto Rico to Chicago, they’ve carved out distinct paths that celebrate dance, film, and wildlife conservation. Orion, the inquisitive barn owl, adds a touch of whimsy to the ensemble, representing the resilience and wonder of the natural world.
Trillium Arts, founded by Heather Hartley and Phil Reynolds, stands as a beacon of creativity where artists and communities converge to explore new horizons. With a focus on research and innovation, Trillium’s residencies serve as incubators for groundbreaking ideas and collaborations that resonate with audiences far and wide.
Thanks to the support of sponsors like Patti S. Eylar & Charlie Gardner and the Madison County Tourism Development Authority, the 2024 ACE Fellowship in Dance continues to thrive, fostering artistic excellence and environmental awareness. Together, they’re weaving a tapestry of artistry and conservation that inspires us all to dance to the rhythm of nature.