Photos by: John Maniaci
Into Sunlight has met with
overwhelming response, receiving
standing ovations from sold-out
audiences, and drawing national attention.
Read reviewers' praise for "Into Sunlight"
Letter of Endorsement FromDavid Maraniss Sarah Halzack, Washington Post Sarah Kaufman, Washington Post Carmel Morgan,
Ballet-Dance Magazine Karin Lipson, New York Times Philip Gardner, Oberon's Grove Katie Reiser, UW-Madison Lindsay Christian, UW-Madison David St.-Lascaux,
Brooklyn Rail Review
Maraniss' book, nominated for a Pulitzer in nonfiction, encompasses one week in 1967, juxtaposing the ambush of an elite army unit in Vietnam with an anti-war protest that turned violent in Madison, WI.
"Into Sunlight" choreographer Robin Becker recalls her inspiration: "When I read David Maraniss' powerful book on the Vietnam War, I immediately responded to the timelessness and universality of the themes and events he documented. I was deeply moved by the integrity, honor, and commitment of both those who fought the war, and those who fought against it. I embarked upon the creation of this dance, "Into Sunlight," hoping that the universal language of the body would reflect and offer the same sense of healing that David's words evoked in me."
This timely dance premiered at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Hofstra University, New York, where it prompted interdisciplinary conferences exploring themes of cultural embodiment, the impact of war and violence, and the integrative power of art. The 92nd Street Y in New York City, and Georgetown University in Washington, DC, hosted additional performances. This spring, the Company offered an extensive residency and performances at Holy Trinity Diocesan High School, and Stony Brook University included Into Sunlight in its Festival of the Moving Body. The work continues to engage audiences and gain momentum from its impact, with more developments upcoming this year.