Alverno Presents has a proud history of presenting extraordinary artists on the cusp of important careers. Merce Cunningham was only the first. Molly is in the midst of a remarkable journey. She founded Mad Shak in 1994 and for ten years was prolific in the creation of ensemble work. In 2004, she began a radical reconsideration of and paring of her practice. First to go was the ensemble, as she focused for several years on solo work. Next to be eliminated was traditional movement that led with the arms, legs and head, as Molly began exploring a choreography originating in the body's core – ribs, stomach, pelvis. The result? Dance that not only beguiles with breathtaking sensuality but also stuns with rare emotional availability. "Stamina of Curiosity" continues her process of drawing the most intimate thoughts through every fiber of the body until they burst forth in shockingly honest movement. This is the first time she has placed this ongoing exploration on an ensemble. The Chicago Tribune lauds her work as an "ever-shifting mental striptease." (Plus, if history is any indication, you will enjoy the bragging rights of "I saw her when.")
Learn more about Molly Shanahan / Mad Shak at madshak.com, or download the program for her upcomming performance here.