Labyrinth Dance Theater

 
On Being Brave
An evening length dance theater piece 
Presented by Labyrinth Dance Theater, Sasha Spielvogel artistic director
 
Inspired by 
How We Learn To Be Brave, Decisive Moments in Life and Faith 
Mariann Edgar Budde
Episcopal Bishop of Washington
 
Like many, I was deeply affected by Bishop Mariann Budde’s powerful and eloquent address at the National Cathedral on January 21st, 2025
 
Her words resonate strongly with me, and I was inspired to read her book, How We Learn to Be Brave. The truths she shares, the courage, vulnerability, and radical love woven through her writing are precisely what our Beloved Community is yearning for amidst the deep divisions and despair we face today.  I was moved  to create a dance theater piece that speaks to this moment in our time. The work I envision would reflect the emotional and spiritual journey Bishop Mariann so beautifully charts in the chapters of her book; in a small way, it might serve as a balm for our fractured world. It is my way of stepping up to the plate.   
 
Timeline for production:
 
November 9th, 2025
Labyrinth Dance Theater produced 10 minutes from the project at the Alvin Ailey Studios through American Dance Guild.
 
Fall 2026, will produce 30 minutes at
St. Mark’s Church, NYC
 
Spring 2027, full project
Alvin Ailey Citigroup Theater, NYC
Cast of 22
Duration: 80 minutes
 
Bows, American Dance Guild, November 9th, 2025 @ Alvin Ailey Studios
Andy Didorenko, composer, Accepting What We Do Not Choose
Dimitri Hector, dancer, Stepping Up To The Plate
2024 Bessie Award winner, Dyane Harvey, as Bishop Mariann Budde
Felicia Norton, dancer, Accepting What We Do Not Choose
Sasha Spielvogel, choreographer
Photo credit: Yulyia Basis
 
 
From the left – Sasha Spielvogel, Dimitri Hector, Dyane Harvey
Photo credit: Eve Cuyen
 
In rehearsal at Gina Gibney Studios @ 890 Broadway for November 9th ADG showing 
Music for Chapter Five: Stepping up to the Plate
Richie Havens, “Stop Pulling and Pushing Me”, Odetta, “Motherless Child”
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