‘Coalescence’ marks a decade, showcasing global odyssey
AS THE curtain rose on the 10th-anniversary staging of Coalescence at the Iberostar Theatre in Montego Bay recently, audiences were transported on a journey across continents, experiencing a fusion of dance, music, and storytelling.
Behind this production lies the creative vision of founder Jody-Marie Smith, her sister and director Sheri-lee Smith, and Antonio Dennis, the artistic director of First Dance Studios.
Dennis, reflecting on the show’s international flavour, expressed pride in showcasing the tremendous talent abundant in Montego Bay and western Jamaica. “Our aim was to surpass our international growth agenda by highlighting t he diverse cultural tapestry of our region,” he explained. “We embarked on a global odyssey, drawing inspiration from China, Africa, India, and beyond.”
The production, comprised of nine segments, each with its own distinct theme and setting. “We couldn’t choose just a few pieces to highlight, as the quality of the show was exceptional,” Dennis said, adding, “Hence, we expanded to five pieces, including a segment inspired by Virgin Atlantic, taking viewers on a jet-setting adventure around the world.”
From the dragon dance of China to the rhythms of Bollywood in India, and the soul-stirring rendition of Circle of Life from the Lion King in Africa, each segment transported the audience to a different cultural landscape. “We meticulously crafted each piece, from the intricate solo performances representing Greece to the high-definition spectacle featuring LED screens. Every element, from choreography to costume design, was thoughtfully curated to enhance the storytelling experience.”
The production included dancers, choreographers, and vocalists, with renowned names like Carma Henry, Kathleen Newman, and Sanha Campbell. Dennis highlighted the collaborative effort that went into bringing the show to life, acknowledging the contributions of individuals such as singers Nicole Simone and Rory Frankson, and designer Dawn Forrester.
With over 30 costume changes and the inclusion of guest performers such as the Montego Bay High dance troupe and the Irwin choir, Coalescence was a testament to the dedication and passion of all involved. “It took three months of intensive rehearsals and coordination to put together this spectacle,” Dennis revealed. “But seeing the audience’s reactions and witnessing the magic unfold onstage made every moment worthwhile.”
In the midst of the 10th anniversary staging, documentary filmmaker Nadean Rawlins stood transfixed, reflecting on the journey that led to this occasion.” When Jody-Marie and Sheri-Lee approached me to chronicle their journey, I eagerly accepted the challenge, eager to capture the essence of their decade-long dedication,” Rawlins shared.
However, what she witnessed a few Sundays ago, she admits, goes beyond the two days of filming.
UNWAVERING COMMITMENT
Rawlins continued, “It’s a testament to the unwavering commitment and passion of these young individuals to elevate dance into an institution. This production transcends boundaries, showcasing a fusion of world-class choreography, stunning visual effects, and impeccable costume design. I’m honoured to have played a part in documenting this extraordinary achievement.”
Echoing Rawlins’ sentiments, renowned producer Weston Haughton commended the production for its exceptional quality and emphasised the importance of broader recognition for such artistic endeavours.
“Fantastic,” Haughton exclaimed, summing up his reaction to the performance, “From the intricately crafted costumes to the seamless teamwork onstage, Coalescence exemplifies excellence in every aspect. This production deserves to be showcased to a wider audience, not confined to a single night’s performance. It’s time for stakeholders to come together and invest in supporting endeavours like this. I am thrilled to be part of this journey and look forward to witnessing more groundbreaking productions in the future.”
And as the curtain fell on the show, the sisters, being the talent and creativity on display, reaffirmed their commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and nurturing the next generation of dancers.
Sheri-Lee Smith stated, “Our 10th-anniversary celebration stands as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and collaboration in shaping transformative cultural experiences. I feel so elated that we are here, that we came and did what we had planned to do.
Jody-Marie Smith, the older of the two girls, said she was involved in every aspect of the production, from planning to choreography, underscoring her dedication to crafting a truly unforgettable experience. “My pieces and the choreography were my babies. I poured my heart into each one,” she added.
Among the standout moments of the evening for the First Dance Studios founder were the poignant ‘ABC’, featuring students from local schools, and the vibrant Bollywood and umbrella pieces, co-choreographed with her eldest student, Serena.