One Night Stand
When and where: Saturday night at the Ace Hotel Pittsburgh in East Liberty.
#IceIceBaby: Attack Theatre is known for creative themes, so when the invite read “crystal anniversary” I knew we would be in for some show-stopping moments. I was not disappointed.
“I pulled these off of our chandelier at home,” said coartistic director and founder Peter Kope as he showed me the adornments lining the collar of his jacket. The VIP party was in full swing when I arrived, as guests were room hopping on the third floor. From crystals on the beds to blow-up dolls, everyone seemed to interpret the theme in their own unique way.
“It was a mad dash to costume world,” said David Onufer with husband Paul Purdy, both in matching silver sequin tuxedo jackets. Beyond the glitter (which may never come out of the carpet), I wanted to know whether the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements had reached the dance world.
“It’s become more of a part of the dialogue and conversation,” said Michele de la Reza, Attack Theatre’s coartistic director and founder. “The movement has definitely influenced the way we look at our work. Trust, respect and empathy are at the foundation of what we do, and those things are critical to have a strong ensemble. We try to honor the movement in the way we relate to each other and our audience.”
This was evident down in the gymnasium during Attack’s performance, which I dubbed “The Art of the Flirt” because there was this tangible tension, this push and pull of emotions and uncertainty in how the dancers were consciously relating to one another before springing into a joyful, unified dance. Can’t wait to see what they have in store for 2018!
#SEEN: Happy birthday Richard Parsakian of Eons Fashion, who celebrated in style at the event, executive director Rebecca Himberger, Brian Siewiorek, Mary and Mark Flaherty (who #SEENBestDressed for his crystal-encrusted Giuseppe Zanotti loafers), Bridget Pavlik and Bill Kolano, Kate Colligan, Keri Harmicar and Dav id Seman, Larry Leahy, Karla Boos, Sean Gray, Jeff Bergman and Michael Painter, Gene Svrcek and Paul Gitnik, Mary Beth and Dave Johnson, Pam and Ken McCrory, Thea Trix, sisters Diane and Aldona Zilinskas and Janet and Harris Ferris.