Holding Space: for Then and Now

A contemporary dance production exploring the unspoken threads of our history and the resilience found when we hold space for it all.

About the performance:

Holding Space: for Then and Now is a contemporary dance production that explores the relationship between our past and current selves. This collaborative showcase brings together two choreographic voices whose shared artistic values prioritize the power of safe, supportive creative communities.

The performance is structured as a dialogue between two landscapes: Then and Now. Together, these works investigate the unspoken threads of our history. Through a mix of raw, dynamic movements and quiet witnessing, the dancers navigate a visceral journey of isolation, shared strength and connection.

Holding Space is a testament to resilience. It celebrates the beauty found when we stop trying to outrun our history and instead learn to hold space for the entirety of our story.

About the artists:

Lindsay Gibbons is a graduate from Keene State College, where she received bachelor's degrees in both dance and psychology. While at Keene State, she trained under Cynthia McLaughlin, Sarah Lass and Meredith Bove. She has had the pleasure of working with and performing in the original works of Boris Willis and Ellen Oliver, among others. Currently, Lindsay is working as a choreographer and dance educator and is the founder of Exceptional Dance Company. Presently, she continues to perform with Collective Moments Dance Company.

Exceptional Dance Company, established in June 2024 and based in New England, is the embodiment of a deep commitment to honoring the unique differences within ourselves and others, viewing these as exceptional traits. With a creative practice rooted in storytelling, the company strives to create work that inspires individuality and fosters profound connection amongst artists and audiences. In a society that often marginalizes difference, EDC passionately celebrates the unique aspects of ourselves and others. Driven by Lindsay's dynamic artistic vision, EDC aims to be a safe haven for artists who defy typical molds, embracing their unique perspectives and creative expression. EDC aims to provoke thought and evoke emotion in every performance, cultivating an inclusive community where authentic self-expression is not only welcomed, but celebrated.

Kaylee Mahan is a graduate of Roger Williams University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Dance. Kaylee has been fortunate to have spent a semester abroad in London for Dance, where she was immersed in a new world of dance and choreography. Training at the London Contemporary Dance School, The Place, she and her classmates worked closely with Choreographer Renaud Wiser as he set a piece for them to perform back in the States. During her time in London, she studied under educators and choreographers such as Stephen Pelton, Jorge Crecis, and Tory Trotter. At school, Kaylee was fortunate to work with a diverse group of artists such as Sean Curran, Tiffany Mills, Christina Robson, Jenny Rocha, and more. Kaylee has been a dancer and choreographer with Evolve Dynamicz, a Boston-based company since 2017. Currently, Kaylee is working as a choreographer, and dance educator, and is the Founder and Director of Collective Moments Dance Company.

Collective Moments Dance Company, established in January 2021, is a New England-based dance company created by Kaylee Mahan. CMDC has been created to share Kaylees passion for choreography, improvisation, and movement of individuals and collectives.  As CMDC creates, shares, and moves through spaces safely, we continue to actively express the importance in honoring dancers as individual people; We use our platforms to advocate, speak, and showcase the importance of mental health by sparking conversations, creating safe spaces, and making it an integral part of ALL WORK AND MOVEMENT.

About the performance space:

The Julie Ince Thompson Theatre (Studio 1) and pre/post-show reception space (Studio 7) are ADA compliant. There is a motorized lift that can bring one person at a time from the ground floor to the theater. There is no elevator. There are handicap accessible restrooms on both floors.