
Artistic Director's Notes: "HOME"
As we approach the premiere of "HOME," a piece that has grown organically from the depths of personal and collective experiences shared by our company, I find myself reflecting on the journey that brought us here. This production, a rich tapestry woven from the threads of modern/contemporary dance, vertical dance, and theater, represents more than just a performance; it symbolizes a profound exploration of the spaces we inhabit—both physical and emotional - and dives into the intricate web of relationships that shape our understanding of what we call 'home.'
"HOME" began as a concept, a simple word that resonates deeply with everyone, yet its meanings are as diverse as the members of our dance company. Over the past year, this idea has been nurtured, challenged, and transformed through a collaborative process that I believe is the heart of true artistic creation. Each dancer brought their own stories, their own interpretations of what 'home' means, making this not just a performance but a shared narrative.
Incorporating elements like vertical dance allowed us to literalize the concept of “connected threads” from our past, present, and future while rooted in the emotional landscapes we navigate in our personal lives. The verticality brings a physical manifestation to the struggles and triumphs each character experiences, adding a layer of depth that only such a multidimensional approach could achieve.
As an artistic director, my role often involves guiding visions to fruition, but with "HOME," I found myself more often led by the visions of our talented performers. This piece has been a reminder of the power of letting go, allowing the creative energies within a talented group to flow freely and guide the process. It taught me that sometimes, leadership means listening, adapting, and supporting rather than directing.
We invite you to experience "HOME," to see a reflection of your own experiences in the stories we tell through movement and expression. This performance is a culmination of hard work, deep reflection, and immense passion from every member of our team. It is my hope that "HOME" resonates with you, offering not just entertainment but a space for reflection on what it means to find, build, and sometimes lose one's home.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Your presence completes our circle, turning our performance into a shared human experience. Here's to finding and cherishing our places of belonging—wherever and with whomever they may be.
With gratitude and anticipation,
Tony Nguyen
Artistic Director
HOME 🏡 (2025)
Co-Choreographers and Performers: Regan Craig, Ella Demers, Cheyenne DeMille, Gianna Greco, Hannah Hooten, Linda “Starrie” Le, Alex Martinez, Julia McCullock, Joan Pasion, Julia Singletary, Storm Smith, Sean Ong Tran, and Gabe Young
Lead Choreographer: Tony Nguyen
Hammock Guest Choreographer: Laura Tucker
Storyboarding: Cheyenne DeMille, Linda “Starrie” Le, Alex Martinez, Tony Nguyen, Sean Ong Tran
Acting Director: Alex Martinez
Technical Manager: Blaine Golez
Text and Spoken Word: Regan Craig, Ella Demers, Cheyenne DeMille, Gianna Greco, Hannah Hooten, Linda “Starrie” Le, Alex Martinez, Julia McCullock, Joan Pasion, Julia Singletary, Storm Smith, Sean Ong Tran, and Gabe Young
Audio Engineer: Mario Santos
Costume Design: Linda “ Starrie” Le
Lighting Design: Tony Nguyen
Set Design: Linda “Starrie” Le and Alex Martinez
House Manager: Drea Guianan
Stage Hand: Rey Halili and Mario Santos
Music: Adele, Peter Gregson, Apparat, Olafur Arnalds, Arnor Dan, The Cinematic Orchestra, Sleeping at Last, Dinah Washington, Matt White, Gabriel Parker, Louisa Fuller, Natalia Bonner, John Metcalfe, Philip Sheppard, Chris Worsley, Warren Zielinski, Magdalena Filipczak, Laurie Anderson + Ashok Klouda
What does 'home' mean to you?
How has your idea of home changed over the years?
What are the most important elements that make a place feel like home to you?
Have you ever experienced a time when you did not have a home, and how did that impact you?
Company
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Kristin Stuhrs
Executive Director
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Emilee Mercado
Outreach Director
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Alex Martinez
Performer / Acting Director / Outreach Teacher / Marketing Coordinator
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Linda "Starrie" Le
Performer / Rehearsal Director
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Blaine Golez
Technical Manager
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William McCray
Company Liason
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Tony Nguyen
Artistic Director / Production Manager
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Regan Craig
Peformer / Outreach Teacher
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Ella Demers
Performer / Outreach Teacher
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Cheyenne DeMille
Performer / Outreach Teacher
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Gianna Greco
Performer
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Julia McCullock
Peformer
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Sean Ong Tran
Performer
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Hannah Hooten
Performer / Outreach Teacher
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Joan Pasion
Performer / Outreach Teacher
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Julia Singletary
Performer / Outreach Teacher
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Storm Smith
Performer
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Gabe Young
Performer
