FringeArts Seeks 200+ Philadelphians For Large-scale Public Dance Performance

FringeArts is calling for 200 Philadelphia-area residents to dance in Le Super Grand Continental, a 30-minute contemporary live performance that displays the talent, charisma and personality that characterizes the city. All are invited to register, regardless of dance experience, age or background. The piece will be presented at the Art Museum Plaza at the end of the Parkway as part of the 2018 Fringe Festival on September 8 and 9 and will become the largest work in the Festival's twenty-two-year history.

In 2012, the annual Fringe Festival was kicked off with a large scale performance unlike anything Philadelphia had seen before. 150 residents of all ages and dance backgrounds assembled at the foot of the Philadelphia Art Museum steps, donned in the outfits of their choice, twirling into a rhythmic human kaleidoscope. Le Grand Continental was a joyous and intoxicating dance spectacle, one that united people from across Philadelphia's diverse communities and was widely heralded by those lucky enough to witness it. This year, the Fringe Festival will be ushered in once again with Montreal-based choreographer Sylvain Émard's unifying work, but with one key difference. As the title Le Super Grand Continental suggests, this time around Émard and his team are doing it bigger and are looking to gather 200 dancers to realize this remarkable performance.

Le Grand Continental is a signature work by Émard, who has presented the piece all over the world, adapting the production to the unique culture of each host city. The Philadelphia version will include a mix of rhythms and styles - including music representing the Philadelphia Sound (or Philly Soul). Émard, renowned for his refined style and precise movement, will rely on the authenticity and spirit of amateur dancers to galvanize audiences in the unifying, festive power of dance in this spectacular outdoor presentation.

No prior experience is necessary to be a part of Le Super Grand Continental, just enthusiasm and a love of dance. Auditions will take place in the FringeArts theater June 6-8 from 6-8pm and on June 9 from 11am-1pm, 2-4pm, and 5-7pm. Auditions last the full two hours during which time prospective dancers will be led through some of the piece's choreography by members of the production team. Those auditioning are encouraged to dress comfortably and bring some water. To sign up, fill out our Google form at https://goo.gl/forms/t2vANZmHNrhDVZly1.

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