Ocean Grove Resident Michael Trusnovec To Perform With Paul Taylor Dance Company

Axelrod Performing Arts Center proudly presents the full company of 18 dancers of the Paul Taylor Dance Company (PTDC) to its stage on Saturday, April 14 at 8:00 p.m.

For lovers of dance, the name Paul Taylor represents one of the pinnacles of American dance, one of the most accomplished artists this nation has ever produced. Having performed with Martha Graham's company for several years, Mr. Taylor uniquely bridges the legendary founders of modern dance - Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, Ted Shawn, Doris Humphrey and Martha Graham - and the dancemakers of the 21st Century with whom he is now working.

"Dancing for Paul Taylor is such an honor, one I have enjoyed every moment so far. His dances are so satisfying to dance - they are technically and emotionally demanding; he choreographs to some of best music; he so beautifully captures what it is and feels like to be human - and he truly is, to me, the most important choreographer of the 20thcentury. The fact that at 87 he is still compelled to make new work and lead his company is inspiring," says Michael Trusnovec, a member of the company since 1998, and a weekend resident of Ocean Grove, NJ, where he owns a home.

"Life is constantly busy - rehearsing, traveling, teaching and performing," explains Trusnovec. "Having a place down the shore in Ocean Grove with my husband is invaluable. It's where I can escape the frenetic pace of New York City, be near the ocean, cook, spend time with friends, work in the garden and take a much needed exhale."

The much revered senior member, who has been called by Robert Gottlieb in the New York Observer, "the greatest male dancer we've had in America since Mikhail Baryshnikov," is thrilled to be appearing with the Paul Taylor Dance Company at Axelrod Performing Arts Center.

"How fantastic to share what I love doing with the community I care about and feel such a part of. With all the amazing development happening in the area, I believe it's so important to have quality arts programming available," he says.

The program opens with Taylor's 1962 breakthrough ballet "Aureole," (set to music by George Friedrich Handel), "Gossamer Gallants" (2011, music by Smetana) and "Piazzolla Caldera" (1997, music by Piazzolla and Peterburshsky).

When asked about his favorite local hangouts, Trusnovec is quick to answer: coffee at Café Volan, incredibly designed cookies from Sweet Dani B, Watermark on the Boardwalk for a drink and an incredible view of the ocean, dinners at Langosta Lounge, Bonney Read, Pascal & Sabine Last, but not least, Burblemaiers. "If you haven't been, I highly recommend it. Awesome savory and sweet pies, frittatas and the nicest owners too!"

This weekend, Michael Trusnovec will be easy to spot when he takes center stage with the Paul Taylor Dance Company at Axelrod Performing Arts Center on Saturday, April 14 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets range from $32-$56. To purchase online visit www.axelrodartscenter.com; by phone (732) 531-9106, ext. 14; or in person at the Axelrod Performing Arts Center at 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park, NJ. The theater offers ample free onsite parking and is completely handicap accessible.

Michael Trusnovec offers this insight on the program to be performed at the Axelrod Performing Art Center:

· Aureole is the oldest and probably the most traditionally classical work on the program, opens the show. It is sunny and technically crisp and light, and a great example of Mr. Taylor's masterful use of space and weight.

· The White Duet from Roses, is romantic and lyrical, depicting a mature, relaxed love. Simple in its use of gesture and partnering, it creates an atmosphere of sublime intimacy.

· Gossamer Gallants is high spirited and silly in its depiction of the sometimes ridiculous courtship rituals of men and women, costumed here as insects. Mr. Taylor's fascination with bugs, and his keen eye for observing everyday human interactions, comes to life in this dance.

· Piazzolla Caldera closes the program, set to Astor Piazzolla's rich, tango music. It is steamy, and sexy and is very accessible to an audience in its melding of classic Taylor with tango style movement. This work was also featured in the Academy Award nominated film, DANCEMAKER and is a crowd favorite.

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