Directing

In keeping with this fun fad of "actually do" posts...

PULSE: What it's like

Season three dancer Cara Parker shares her insider perspective on being a part of the company. 

Cara as photographed by Kerry Tasker

"Envision hot oil; let it flow down your body, around your joints; warming up your limbs..." I was hooked after that. 

Last January as a member of Peninsula Artists in Motion I was asked to guest perform a piece at Pulse's concert. I found myself surrounded by Pulser bodies in pre-concert warmups and knew it was love. As a fan from the outside, I fell in love with their raw energy and emotion-evoking movement... as a company member, it has only deepened with their honesty. 

I have danced for 12 years with my closest friends and been surrounded by talented performers most of my life. I have choreographed and danced others' creations to express and build a sense of wholeness and beauty, for not only audiences, but ourselves. But it has never been this raw, intense, and honest. 

A good example:

At rehearsal last week we were asked, with weighted bodies and heavy breath, to sigh. So as the performer I am, I threw myself into it. Articulated back, sad eyes, heavy breath. I was "in" it. And then I was asked by the director, "Cara, now make me believe it's real." 

And that is it. That is the difference between Pulse and everyone else; between the dancer I was and the dancer I am. It is not acting. It is not conjured to relate. It does relate and it is inspiring in its realness.

Alaska is a blessed land to have as many artful, free-thinking creative dancers as it does. The talent I have seen in the schools, companies and even streets here inspires me. And the hearts and souls of the Company I keep; well, they move me.

Sincerely, 

Your new Pulser -

Cara (Parker) Mazurek

June Bug

Ever heard the saying "like a duck on a june bug?" We haven't either, but that's how we're jumping into this month!

First, we make our way onto the shelves of Barnes & Noble with a full feature article in AK Rhythm magazine. Order your own print or digital copy of this beautiful dance, music and arts publication packed with all the local Anchorage arts scene goodness here. PULSE is highlighted in the ARTic section with reporting and photos by Wyoming Telford.

Back by popular demand, we're proud to announce the third annual return of our Play with PULSE summer dance series! While other dance classes wind down for the season, we focus on providing you with a five (and potentially six!) week workshop series.

Give your summer a pulse with five unique movement workshops offered exclusively by PDC... for you.

WHERE: Laughing Lotus Yoga Studio
WHEN: Fridays, 6:00 – 7:30, Jun 29 - Jul 27
COST: $18 drop-in, $90 full session; $75 Early Bird Special until June 6
CALL: 243-YOGA (9642)
REGISTER ONLINE/RSVP on Facebook!

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JUN 29 Ballet Beats: Broadway flair meets ballet grace in a fun course integrating contraction and release, proper alignment, and a driving soundtrack. Advanced Beginner/Intermediate.

JUL 6 Tools for Every Dancer: Improvisational exercises introduce making choices in the the moment, compositional tools, and introduction of the Feldenkrais method. All levels.

JUL 13 Modern in Motion: A high-energy offering focused on the learning and retention of performance-based choreography; your chance to lose yourself in movement. Intermediate.

JUL 20 Movement for Modeling: A charismatic dance class sassifying struts and heightening body awareness. Challenges dancers, models and pageant contestants from head to peep-toe pump. All levels; please bring heels.

JUL 27 Ballet Abs: A ballet-inspired, core-focused class to strengthen and lengthen, improve balance, increase coordination and decrease stress. Ballet fundamentals meet floorwork; yoga attire & mats encouraged. All levels.

Our May 26 Big Feat, Little Feet talent competition was a beautiful culmination of awesome local artistry. CONGRATULATIONS to the overall winner, Moriah Walker, who took home the $300 grand prize as well as audience favorite. First runner-up were the Copper River Clan dancers, followed by hip-hop/b-boy groups EOR and Multiverse who tied for honorable mention. The lineup of 11 competing groups was serious, but there was a lighter side as well. From dance, song and performance art to 'living poetry,' we couldn't have been more pleased with the show. THANK YOU to everyone who participated, attended, and to our judges Dorene Lorenz, Michelangelo Canale, Leah Frankson, and Matt Collins. Way to support local art!

Speaking of supporting local art... we are so extremely grateful to our AMAZING rehearsal space and body care sponsor Massage Now. Their very gracious staff keeps us taken care of from head to toe, and we love them for it. If you're hunched over a desk or lap top right now, call or stop by their convenient location across from Spenard Roadhouse. You'll pretty much float out once they've taken care of you.

Stay tuned to our facebook page for the next batch of action-packed photos by Kerry Tasker to be released later this month.






Wishing everyone a wonderful summer. We hope to see you in the studio for some Play with PULSE dancin'!

All the best,

Stephanie Wonchala

Company Director

May Madness

PDC in rehearsal

May Day! May Day!

Pulse has hit the ground running this season and May is no exception.

To recap, April was jam-packed with performance goodness. From the premiere of PULSE’s newest work at Out North's Pride Prom to performance art in full body paint for Halo Salon’s “Hair2O” event, the company’s been keeping busy and loving it. We also had the pleasure of dancing alongside Thodos Dance Chicago while hosting a workshop open to the community. Experiencing Thodos in Alaska was truly awe-inspiring.

Group photo: Hair, makeup and body paint as inspired by Fire, Water, Air and Trees for Halo Salon's "Hair2O" fundraiser for Alaska Waterways.

This Wednesday, May 2 marks the end of our month-long series of FREE dance classes for kids ages 9-15 at the Fairview Recreation Center with Associate Artistic Director Walter Barillas. Touching the lives of children through movement (and in ways they had never before been exposed to) has been rewarding in a multitude of ways. Who knew nine-year-olds would use words like “inspired” to describe their experience?!

Director Stephanie Wonchala poses with enthusiastic students at the Fairview Rec Center. 

CALL TO ARTISTS:

The challenge is on and you or someone you know could win $300 for creating! PDC presents “Big Feat, Little Feet” to discover how free our community of artists can be within a limited space. Open to all talents, an esteemed panel of judges will determine who utilizes 7’ x 7’ performance dimensions the best.

Judges have been announced!
For more information and to register, click here.

Check out BFLF’s promotional video here!

RSVP on facebook here.

NEW RELEASE!:

After premiering at PULSE in Concert this past January, the long-awaited release of our dance-on-camera film project has arrived! Please take a moment to indulge in this fusion of arts – dance and film – as PULSE and From Scratch Productions present “Inner Motion,” a journey through four stages of creation.

Watch it here: Inner Motion

UP NEXT:

In collaboration with photographers Kerry Tasker and Loren Homes, PULSE will be releasing a series of photographs highlighting the company’s female dancers. Fusing elegance with action and beauty with the quirky, be sure to check out the full album here as we continue releasing photos throughout the month.

The Ladies of PULSE
Photo Credit: Kerry Tasker

Anchorage Classical Ballet’s Spring Celebration: PDC is very excited to be special guest performers for Anchorage Classical Ballet Academy’s Spring Celebration. Get your dance fill on May 12 at the Discovery Theatre.

Thank you for your continued and motivating support! If you like what we're doing and would like to be a patron of our endeavors, please consider giving to the company. Even small gifts help make a big difference, and donations can be made here.

Viva la danse!

Company & Artistic Director
pulsedancecompany@gmail.com

April Action!

Greetings from PULSE!

It's April, and we have our toes in all sorts of goodness. Following last month's performances at the Bear Tooth Theatre and a succesful "Dance Day Getaway" community dance retreat, we now have even more events that can include you or someone you know. The company is excited that spring has sprung, and we'd love to have you dancing right along with us.

April Events:

DANCE DAYS:  Pulse is thrilled to be offering Anchorage's youth FREE dance classes at the Fairview Recreation Center. Anyone between the ages of 9-15 is welcome to come experience the joy of dance every Monday & Wednesday of this month, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.







MOVEMENT STRATEGIES: Pulse directors are teaming up with Convenant House Alaska to bring movement into the lives of Anchorage's homeless youth. In addition to the food, shelter and care provided by the Covenant House, Pulse will share mind/body awareness strategies while creating an environment of trust, respect, and FUN. April 12, 7:00 p.m.

THODOS DANCE CHICAGO WORKSHOP WITH PULSE: Take advantage of your chance to dance with TWO dance companies under ONE roof! Thodos Dance Chicago is touring AK and will offer an athletic master class alongside Pulse at Alaska Dance Theatre on Sunday, April 15, 5:00-6:30 p.m. $15
Find more class details and RSVP on facebook here.

PRIDE PROM: Pride Prom is an opportunity for LGBT teens to enjoy a non-judgemental prom in a safe environement. PDC premieres new works for Pride Prom attendees at Out North Contemporary Art House Saturday, April 21, 8:00 p.m.

Hair2O: In celebration of Earth Month, Pulse joins forces with Halo Salon to host Hair2O, a celebration of hair artistry, makeup, and a fundraiser for Alaska Water Ways. This nature-inspired event will appeal to all of your senses with live music, Aveda scents, performance art by PULSE Dance Company, spoken word, hair by Halo and MUCH more! Tickets will be available at the door; arrive early to secure seats. At Taproot on Wednesday, Apr 25, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
RSVP on facebook here.





Announcements:

Pulse is currently accepting applications for "Big Feat, Little Feet," our first annual talent & dance challenge. For a cash prize of $300 and a fantastic gift basket, Anchorage creators are encouraged to develop provocative work within the confines of a 7' x 7' performance area.
An esteemed panel of judges will determine the best use of space. Email pulsedancecompany@gmail.com for details and to enroll.
Works will be presented at the Anchorage Museum on Saturday, May 26 at 6:00 p.m.
View details and RSVP on facebook here.

Call For Board Members!
Pulse is searching for motivated individuals to wear the strapping title of Board Member. As we boldly jet into our third season, we need people as determined to make big, beautiful things happen in performance art as we are.
Please share with anyone who may be ideal for or interested in this position.







Thank you for taking the time to catch up with us. We certainly hope you're able to take advantage of some of the dance opportunites and performances we'll be hosting. 2012 is going to be a fantastic year - we appreciate your unwavering support!

If you like what we're doing and would like to be a patron of our endeavors, please consider giving to the company. Even small gifts help make a big difference, and donations can be made here.


Viva la danse!

Stephanie Wonchala
Company Director
pulsedancecompany@gmail.com

PULSE Dance Co. Seeks Treasurer

Hello friends, fans, acquaintances and supporters of the arts,

PULSE Dance Company is currently searching for a motivated, accounting-minded individual to wear the strapping title of Treasurer.

As we boldly jet into our third season - leaving standing ovations and packed houses in our wake - we need someone as determined to make big, beautiful things happen in performance art as we are.

Please share with anyone who may be ideal for or interested in this position. Details on the company, as well as past and upcoming events can be found at www.pulsedancecompany.com.

Viva la danse!
Stephanie Wonchala
Company Director
pulsedancecompany@gmail.com

Dance Day Getaway!

Spring has sprung and PULSE Dance Company brings you our annual Dance Day Getaway yet again!

DDG is a refuge for movers and shakers designed to challenge, train, and relax the body in a rejuvenating movement retreat. Pulse Dance Company members and accomplished guest instructors unite to provide the Anchorage community with a reinvigorating, day-long dance escape.

DDG boasts a smorgasbord of classes to choose from, tailored to suit every level dancer. Too good to be true? $75 registration also includes chair massage opportunities, a healthy lunch, bottled water, and your very own Pulse Dance Company t-shirt.

When: Saturday, March 17th, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Where: Fairview Community Rec Center @ 1121 E. 10th Avenue

Registration: $75

($15 to drop in for one class)

Call (907) 301-3208 or email pulsedancecompany@gmail.com now to reserve your spot in this Spring Break splurge! You will leave transformed!


DANCE DAY GETAWAY SCHEDULE:
(two course offerings per time slot; arrive early to craft your own schedule!)

10:15 - 10:55           Walk-In registration & chair massage opportunities
11:00 - 12:00           Yoga  or  Pilates
12:05 - 1:05             Beginning Ballet  or  Improv
1:05 - 1:40               Lunch & chair massage oportunities
1:45 - 2:45               Cunningham  or  Hip-Hop
2:50 - 3:50               Belly Dance  or  Broadway Dance
3:55 - 4:55               Ballet Fusion  or  Pan-African
5:00 - 5:30               Chair massage opportunities



CLASS DESCRIPTORS:
(in offering order)

Find Your Flow, Find Freedom: A vinyasa flow style yoga class connecting breath with movement. Focuses on postures and expressions to breathe supple, malleable life into the spine. Be prepared to let go of control, color outside the lines and find freedom in flow. Led by dancer and Laughing Lotus instructor Marta Buist.

Pilates: Pilates is a holistic form of exercise and postural therapy that emphasizes the development of deep abdominal, or “core,” muscles. You'll work to flatten the stomach, shape and tone the entire body, and provide support for the spine. Led by Ana Kokaurova of Studio One Pilates.

Beginning/Intermediate Ballet: This class will expand beyond the basic fundamentals into brief, rhythmic and flowing combinations to help dancers move efficiently and apply natural coordination to their movements. Instructed by Alice Bassler Sullivan of DanceArts Alaska, the founding artistic director of Alaska Dance Theatre and current director of Eagle River Ballet.

Improv Improvement: A guided escape into your imagination coaxing concepts into movement. Ease into this course with a body-awakening warm-up, light partner interaction, and movement opportunites loaded with choreographic tools. Instructed by Stephanie Wonchala, PULSE Dance Co. founder and artistic director.

Cunningham Technique: This class focuses on the spine in its relation to the legs and challenges a dancer’s ability to change direction within the body and space. Dancers will move through combinations of turns, adagios and phrases across the floor. Instructed by Walter Barillas, PULSE Dance Co. associate artistic director.

Beginning Hip-Hop: It's all about getting your groove on and showing off some attitude. This class blends different styles of hip-hop in an upbeat atmosphere to funky pop music. It’s meant to help everyone let go of their worries and have some fun! Led by choreographer Michelle Wilkins, professional company member with Underground Dance Company.

4 Secrets of Belly Dance for the American Dancer: This class focuses on what 16 years of research and personal experience have taught instructor Melissa Wanamaker of Barefoot Muse Productions are the four greatest stumbling blocks for trained dancers in interpreting this supple, serpentine style. Build or boost your belly dance foundation here.

Broadway Dance: Step into the spotlight with great moves and music! This class is for the dancer and musical theater lover in us all. Led by beloved local instructor Kristen Vierthaler, you'll delight in a theatrical, provocative approach to performing that incorporates the pep and pizzaz of Broadway dance numbers.

Ballet Fusion: This class melds the grounded ideas of modern dance with the lifted grace of ballet. Integrating contraction and release with proper ballet technique and alignment, this course offering is ideal for the well-rounded dancer. Led by Corbin Frazier, PULSE Dance Company member and danseur.

Pan-African: Learn Pan-African movements, relating collectively to the nations of Africa. This open-level class is accompanied by live drumming and includes warm-ups, specific dance steps and Pan-African dance combinations. Taught by Johnnie Wright III, Our Hands Together master dancer and choreographer.

Pulse Director nominated local "Hottie"

In this week's issue of the Anchorage Press you'll find PULSE company director, Stephanie Wonchala, highlighted as one of Anchorage's hottest personalities. You can access the full article here.

Photo Credit: Beth Skabar

STEPHANIE PIA WONCHALA
The Dancer

Stephanie Pia Wonchala may have hit the big time first as Miss Alaska 2006, but you can check the pageant-girl stereotypes at the door. While she certainly knows how to rock an updo and evening gown, Wonchala is better known these days for founding PULSE, Anchorage's new modern dance company that just wrapped up a successful second season.

Wonchala started studying ballet at Balletschule Röhrig in Germany at age four, eventually minoring in modern dance at UAA. Feeling the Anchorage dance scene needed something new-something modern, visceral and volcanic-she decided to make that something happen.

Wonchala is a woman who likes to stay busy, which is good because she has a schedule that would challenge that of a heart surgeon moonlighting as an air traffic controller. In addition to working full time at an investment firm, Wonchala handles all the administrative work, outreach and event coordination for the dance company, and that's not including the time she spends in rehearsal and performing. Wonchala is definitely a woman who goes for what she wants-now just try to keep up.

Occupation: Executive assistant at an investment firm by day. The rest of the time, company and artistic director of PULSE modern dance company.

Sign: Virgo

Eye color: Hazel

Languages: Fluent in English and German (echt geil!)

Favorite joke: I'm kind of a "that's what she said" fanatic.

What gets Stephanie out on the dance floor: Songs that get my creative juices flowing include: "Cracks" (Flux Pavillion Remix) by Freestylers, "Lights" (Bassnectar Remix) by Ellie Goulding. And anything with creepy sounds and a driving beat.

On running a dance company: It's invigorating and all encompassing; it's a full time job on top of a full time job. I get off work and go to work-but that's when I come to life.

Stephanie's ideal date: I just want to laugh. I really appreciate a good beer and a clever boy. And if they can appreciate the arts-they don't need to love dance, or love going to the museum, they mostly just need to have an open mind and make whatever we're doing fun.

To learn more about Stephanie and PULSE dance company visit http://www.stephaniewonchala.com/ and http://www.pulsedancecompany.com/

Make it rain! (Dollars for PULSE)

Want to be the reason we can put on fantastic shows in great venues filled with beautiful lighting, awesome costuming and artistic fervor?! Consider becoming a PULSE Donor today!

There are several tiers available for you to make our 2012 dancing world go 'round:
PULSE Allies:  $300+
PULSE Patrons:  $100 - $299
PULSE Playmates:  $50 - $99

PULSE Pals:  $1 - $49

Donate via PayPal at http://www.pulsedancecompany.com/ or email us at pulsedancecompany@gmail.com!

With a killer second season behind us and an even better third season coming up (ready for Feb 25 auditions??), now is the time to shimmy and shake your loose change on over to PDC, the company that makes dance accessible to everyone.

xoxo

Company Member Playlist: Sophie Auburn

Ever wonder how PULSE company members get in the right mindset pre-performance? Featured Pulser Sophie Auburn shares her ipod playlist. Maybe you'll find just what you need to shake it, too.

SOPHIE, share your faves!
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1. "Ungirthed" - Purity Ring// because it reminds me of our dance movie.  :)

2. "Polish Girl" - Neon Indian

3. "Wildfire"- SBTRKT

4. "Zebra"- Beach House

5. "Lights & Music" - Cut Copy

6. "Watching the Planets" - The Flaming Lips

7. "The Bells Sketch" - James Blake

8. "Hairy Candy" - TOBACCO

(I chose all of these songs because they pump me up and get me ready to go out on stage!!!!) :)))

Ahhh, and that's a wrap!

Yes. PULSE Dance Company just wrapped their second season with an exuberant, multi-faceted show at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. Featuring eight PULSE works, the world premiere of PULSE's Dance-on-Film project Inner Motion, guest performers Anchorage Classical Ballet and Peninsula Artists in motion, hors d'oeuvres by Ginger and drinks by Alaska Distillery, PDC in Concert was a huge success bursting with joy, creativity, and passionate supporters.

Special thanks to everyone who attended. For a list of our amazing sponsors, donors, and volunteers, check out our website!

Season II ended in bliss. Season III, watch out. Much love to all.
xo
PULSE