La MaMa Moves! Gala Performance Benefit Held 6/4-20

La MaMa Moves!, which is dancing into its fifth year, has a dance card that is the envy of the ball. It's filled with impressive names such as Sara Rudner, Rashaun Mitchell, John Kelly, Ellen Fisher, Judith Sanchez Ruiz, John Scott, Jennifer Monson, and Doug Elkins--in all, over 75 different performers, several of whom are appearing at La MaMa for the first time, and many of whom are crossing the pond just for the opportunity to dance on one of its venerable stages. Dedicated to the 90th birthday of Ellen Stewart, the founder and artistic director of La MaMa, the 2010 festival extends from June 4-20.

Of special note is the June 8 gala honoring dancer/choreographer Sara Rudner, who received the 2009 Dance Magazine Award, and Dublin Dance Festival Director Laurie Uprichard. Fittingly, the evening's celebration will feature Rudner herself, along with a mix of dancing friends and Sarah Lawrence cohorts. Also performing are Doug Elkins, John Kelly, David Neumann, Jon Kinzel, and Rashaun Mitchell, while speakers will include Carolyn Brown, Deborah Jowitt, Carla Peterson, Marcia Siegel, and Jawole Willa Jo Zollar (via DVD).

The after party takes place throughout La Mama's three lobbies, which will be transformed into an Umbrian osteria through the dramatic magic of lighting and imaginative floral decor. Festivities include performances by a variety of both Italian-American and American musicians, while traditional food and wine will be provided by the evening's sponsor, Umbrian-based winery Signae Cesarini Sartori. The winery is also sponsoring the Rosso Bastardo Evenings of contemporary Italian dance at La Mama on June 11 & 12, as well as the complimentary wine and food pairings both prior to and following the June 4-12 shows.

La MaMa ETC is located at 74A East 4th Street. Gala tickets start at $100 and can be purchased online at www.lamama.org or by calling (866) 811-4111.