rupture is an evening of two distinct dance works by Princeton seniors Olivia Kasule and Braeh Simon. Leaning into the tension of familiar realities breaking apart, their works examine the physical and psychological implications of shared loss and rapidly shifting social dynamics. Through intentional choreographic and collaborative artistic approaches, the evening expands ideas of contemporary dance and positionality.
“She Builds” by Braeh Simon, a Sociology major pursuing a minor in Dance, draws inspiration from the spirit of contemporary fusion and the strength of feminine artistic community. Influenced by African American movement traditions, indie aesthetics, and research gathered through travel and dialogue with other artistic forms, the work honors the mentors, teams, and communities that helped carve space for a developing choreographic voice. Rooted in musicality, personal expression, and gestural movement, the piece reflects a creative practice built through connection, memory, and trust. Joining Simon, the cast includes Isabel Matthews ’26, Lori Gallo ’28, and Sophie Lee ’26.
“Ephemeral, Still” is a contemporary ballet work choreographed by Olivia Kasule, exploring impermanence and the fostering of connections within a fleeting world. Grounded in the subtle hues of grief, the work is set to an original composition by graduate composer Francisco del Pino and performed live by violinist Courtney Orlando of the 2026 Grammy® Award-winning chamber orchestra Alarm Will Sound. With movement that layers fluidity and resistance against a responsive set design of descending silver and gold mylar pieces, the work reflects on how the present fades, while the quiet weight of its memory remains still. Kasule is a Neuroscience/Pre-med major pursuing minors in Dance and Theater & Music Theater. Her cast includes Bruce Dienst ’26, Spencer Fitzgerald ’29, Aria Gao ’29, Olivia Kasule ’26, and Rika Nishikawa ’29.
Tickets & Details
The performances are free and open to the public; advance tickets required.
Get tickets through University Ticketing
Reach University Ticketing by email at tixhelp@princeton.edu or by phone at 609-258-9220.
Directions
Get directions to the Hearst Dance Theater, located on the Forum level of the Lewis Arts complex.
Enter the Lewis Arts complex through the main Forum level entry doors located across from the Princeton NJ Transit Station/Wawa. All other entry doors are locked on weekends.
Accessibility
The Hearst Dance Theater is an accessible venue equipped with assistive listening devices. Visit our Venues and Studios section for accessibility information about the arts complex. Guests in need of access accommodations are asked to contact the Lewis Center at LewisCenter@princeton.edu at least one week prior to the event date.
