Karen Bernard is known for creating a storm of references on the body. In Showgirls, she delves into a delicious deconstruction of glamour in decline. Using evocative imagery of a crumbling Venice juxtaposed with sumptuously adorned dancers in high heels who strut their stuff unapologetically, Bernard orchestrates a visually rich and thought provoking performance that swirls around the audience. Bernard’s Showgirls recognize their imperfections and deny those of the world around them, creating an emotionally charged and complex performance.
Creation and performance: Karen Bernard
Dramaturg: Andi Stover
Performers: Jil Guyon, Lisa Parra, Rachel Thorne Germond
Costume Designer: Hwa Park
Video Editor: Jil Guyon
Lighting Designer: Emma Rivera
Showgirls was performed May 17 – 19, 2018 at Brooklyn Studios for Dance
Karen Bernard’s Showgirls photo by Svetla Atanasova
Showgirls has been made possible through Brooklyn Studios for Dance, Emily Harvey Foundation, E|MERGE Interdisciplinary Collaborative Residency at Earthdance, LiftOff Creative and Project Development Workshop; and individual patrons.
ankita sharma, photo by Deming Haines
“The festival was such a wonderfully supportive community of artists to perform amongst and a generous audience as well. The performances were inspiring and exceptionally well-run, which I appreciated.”
– ankita sharma
New Dance Alliance
182 Duane Street
New York, NY 10013
(646) 510-1824
All venues are wheelchair accessible.
