November 2014
NOLA Fringe Fest
The Divine Yoga Center
March 2015
Café Istanbul
Choreographed and Conceptualized by
Monica Ordoñez
Nominated for a Big Easy Classical Arts Award for Outstanding Modern Dance Presentation
Photo Credit: Mike Yoder
For the gay community in New Orleans, The UpStairs Lounge was a safe haven where the patrons could love, laugh, and even worship freely. On June 24, 1973, an arsonist set fire to the lounge, claiming 32 lives, marking this monumental tragedy as the most deadly attack on the LGBT community in US History. Sadly, even in New Orleans, this event is still largely unknown.
Step 'UpStairs' and experience a celebration of the lounge through the tale of contemporary dance and film intertwined. Mélange presents a variety of choreographed works inspired by the true stories of the patrons, from cabaret drag to a beautiful tribute to those who were lost. Come ‘Take a Walk on the Wild Side’ with Us!
Photo Credit: Mike Yoder
"a valuable and radical work"
-Nola Dance Reader
Photo Credit: Brei Olivier
"...raising awareness of the historical event while telling an emotionally compelling story of the trials and triumphs of the queer community"
-NOLA Dance Reader
Photo Credit: Brei Olivier
"timely and relevant"
-NOLA Dance Reader
Photo Credit: Mike Yoder
"...whether the dancers’ interactions were tender and delicate or athletic and high-flying, the partnering was expertly executed, thematically resonant, and exciting to watch."
-Nola Dance Reader
Photo Credit: Brei Olivier
Photo Credit: Mike Yoder
"a wealth of well-trained, well-rehearsed dancers
with confidence and great physical facility "
-NOLA Dance Reader
Photo Credit: Mike Yoder
Photo Credit: Mike Yoder
