Coming to The Capital Fringe Festival: ‘Donna Has a Boyfriend: A Collection of Works’ by Hayley Cutler

Donna Has a Boyfriend is a collection of three works from critically acclaimed postmodern dance company darlingdance. The show consists of (The Censoring of) Approximate Location, a controversial piece that premiered at Dance Place in December 2011, a work-in-progress duet tentatively titled And Every Year is Zero, and a trio called Good Riddance Donna that premiered in Chicago’s FRINGE Festival.

This show offers an in-depth peek into the life of this young local dance company, which was founded in 2010 by choreographer Hayley Cutler. Composed entirely of DC-based dancers who hail from such dance departments as The George Washington University, University of Maryland, George Mason University, Howard University and Virginia Commonwealth University, the company’s repertoire is a complete reflection of its members’ unique but ever-crossing paths.

(The Censoring of) Approximate Location didn’t set out to be a “fuck you” piece, but after a somewhat traumatic experience with the man (dun, dun, dunnn!) in the work’s formative months, the piece has become an anthem of our staunch freedom and independence as a company, as well as our belief in positive collaboration and exploration. It was during that time that we solidified our already deep belief that when it comes to art, it’s the artists that should be in charge. You can feel the ferocity and power when you watch this one on stage. Hailed as a “masterwork of choreography,” Approximate Location is a truly unique ensemble piece.

And Every Year is Zero is a duet that is currently in the process of creation. Going against her usually very secretive ways, Cutler is inviting FRINGE audiences to witness this work-in-progress in its most raw state – the heart of the phrase work that will eventually become a full-length piece. You’ll get a special sneak peek, and Cutler will have an anxiety attack at the thought of showing unfinished work. Solid trade-off.

'Donna Has a Boyfriend.' Photo courtesy of Darling Dance Company.

Finally, we’ve got the beloved Good Riddance Donna. This trio has become a fan favorite amongst darlingdance followers since its premier in the Chicago FRINGE Festival in 2011. Decribed by Time Out Chicago as “challenging…a study in composition and metamorphosis that peels itself like an onion…”, this trio is danced beautifully by Jen Caulk, Rick Westerkamp and Megan Whittemore… original darlingdancers from the beginning…of time.

Donna Has a Boyfriend is a can’t-miss show from a young company that is certainly one to watch, as evidenced by Cutler’s spot as a finalist in the Emerging Choreographer category of the most recent MetroDC Dance Awards. If you’ve ever wondered “What the hell is postmodern dance?” or said outloud “Paula Abdul is the only choreographer I know by name,” then this is the show, and dance company, for you!

Venue: GALA Theatre at Tivoli Square -3333 14th Street, NW, in Washington, DC.
PS – Our venue has A/C! Glory, Glory Hallelujah!

Click on the following performances to purchase tickets. or by them online.

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“This production is presented as part of the 7th Annual Capital Fringe Festival – July 12-29, 2012. A program of the Washington DC nonprofit Capital Fringe.”

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