“Lets All Live and Give Together” - From Dance Performance: There is a Message in Our Movement – A Social Justice Suite
Choreographed by Sharon Simmons-Wright | With Dancers: Amanda Armenteros, Denver Gray, Rakeisha Smith-Williams, Stephanie Steele, Jenee Jackson, Symone Lassic, Destiny Mosely
Photography: Ocean Morisset
Studio Theater in Exile @ Hudson Valley MOCA
This production was inspired by social justice photographs by Ocean Morisset and drawings from the “Arc of the Viral Universe” journal installation at the theater curated by Carla Rae Johnson. “The arts reflect our political thoughts as well as our human feelings,” said Mara Mills, Artistic Director of Studio Theater in Exile, “And STIE mission is to look at the world through the lens of social impact and artistic collaboration. Working with Sharon is a pleasure and privilege. Her broad experience and artistic intensity is awesome.”
Sharon Simmons-Wright, discussing the project, said “Every step we take, every action we make, echoes our message loud and clear. We move with purpose, with conviction, and with a message that resonates far beyond our footsteps. In every gesture, every word, every stance, there's a message - a call for change, a plea for justice, a beacon of hope. Our movement is our voice, and within its rhythm lies the power to inspire, to unite, to transform. Let every stride carry our message forward, let every beat of our hearts echo its truth."
Amanda Armenteros, Dever Gray, Rakeisha Smith-Williams, Stephanie Steele, Destiny Mosley, Symone Lassic, and Jenee Jackson will be performing.
There Is A Message In Our Movement:
How Many More Times:
The Women of Brewster Place:
I Was Created For This:
Lets All Live And Give Together:
BIO
Sharon Simmons-Wright, M.S.Ed., the dynamic force behind "Just the Place, Inc. Cultural & Creative Arts Center." With a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications & Dance, A Master's Degree in Education, and an electrifying 33 years in the education realm, she is not just a dance studio owner – she is a visionary. Sharon’s dance journey began as a dance student at the age of 10, she transitioned into a passionate instructor, and evolved into a dance education powerhouse.
Breaking the mold, she founded "Just the Place, Inc. in 2001," where every plié and pirouette is infused with creativity and character. Sharon’s approach is not just about dance; it is about unleashing the artistic spirit within. Her studio is not a mere space; it is a vibrant community hub, buzzing with workshops, performances, and outreach programs that break down barriers and make dance accessible to all.
In the pulse of the community, Sharon’s legacy is not just measured in years, but in the rhythm of countless lives she has touched. Her mission goes beyond dance steps; it is about igniting a passion for lifelong learning and self-expression. If you are ready to dance to the beat of your own drum, step into "Just the Place" – where Sharon turns every dance into an exhilarating journey of self-discovery.
Ocean Morisset is a self-taught , award-winning photographer with nearly twenty years of experience specializing in Photojournalism and Documentary photography. A self described "humanitarian-with-a-camera", Ocean also explores Fine Art photography and engages with a wide range of subjects in life, though his passion remain in telling stories with photos, captured candidly. Ocean often uses his iphone to capture fleeting moments, using the stealth of a ninja and a zen-like sensitivity towards his subjects. The iphone allows him to get close, remain stealthy in his approach and capture intimate moments, that tell the story of the human condition.
