Artistic Collaboration to Elevate ChoreoLab Students’ Spring Showcase

The Upper School ChoreoLab class recently welcomed Dante Puleio, Artistic Director of the renowned Limón Dance Company, for a visit that left a profound impact on students preparing for the School’s annual ChoreoShow. ChoreoLab, led by Barry Blumenfeld, is a rigorous choreography and composition course where students master the craft of dance creation. By drawing inspiration from diverse sources, including improvisation, poetry, visual art, and personal experiences, students develop not only original works but also essential skills such as rehearsal leadership, costume design, and music research.

Dante Puleio, a celebrated figure in the world of modern dance, serves as the sixth Artistic Director in the Limón Dance Company’s illustrious history. Founded in 1946 by José Limón and Doris Humphrey, the Company has been a cornerstone of American modern dance for over 75 years. It is globally acclaimed for its dramatic expression, technical precision, and the enduring relevance of Limón’s groundbreaking choreography. The repertory, which includes Limón’s classic works alongside new commissions by contemporary choreographers, exemplifies the timelessness of his artistic vision while continuing to evolve to meet the needs of modern audiences.

Puleio’s extensive career includes more than a decade as a performer with the Limón Dance Company, alongside work in national and international musical theater, television, and film. As a scholar with an MFA from the University of California, Irvine, Puleio’s research focuses on contextualizing mid-20th-century dance for contemporary audiences, a mission he advances through his leadership of the Company. Under his stewardship, the Limón Dance Company bridges its storied past with a dynamic and innovative future, ensuring the vitality of Limón’s legacy in the rapidly changing landscape of the 21st century.

During his visit to ChoreoLab, Puleio engaged students with insights into the artistry and discipline of choreography, emphasizing the importance of emotional resonance and nuanced movement in dance-making. He also shared his perspectives on José Limón’s iconic work, inspiring students to connect their creative endeavors with the rich traditions of modern dance.

Puleio’s presence offered a rare and invaluable opportunity for students to glean knowledge from one of the field’s foremost leaders, deepening their understanding of both the historical and contemporary dimensions of dance. His visit underscored the transformative power of dance as an expressive art form, leaving an indelible impression on the next generation of choreographers.

Currently Eric Parra, a member of the acclaimed Limón Dance Company will partner with Friends Seminary’s Upper School ChoreoLab class, providing expert mentorship as students refine their skills in preparation for the annual ChoreoShow this spring. This collaboration represents a unique opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of dance-making under the guidance of an artist from one of the world’s foremost modern dance companies.