Star Pû Method is a dance-theater technique and corresponding theater work created by Larissa Velez-Jackson (LVJ), a 2021-22 Hearst Choreographer-in-Residence at the Lewis Center for the Arts. Star Pû Method ~ Care, Freedom and Partnership features Princeton student dancers improvising movement, vocal sound, song and spoken words based on a core premise of self and community care. Through embracing failure along with success, this work explores the vast spectrum between being a “star” onstage and the comedy, vulnerability and humanity of the dancer. This longer, studio version of the Princeton Dance Festival performance of this work is meant to achieve greater intimacy with the audience and the cast members. The event is followed by a discussion with the cast and LVJ Performance Co. members.
Also on December 5 at 5 p.m., LVJ’s professional dance company, LVJ Performance Co., will share an in-progress excerpt of their current work that will premiere at The Chocolate Factory Theater in New York City, June 2022. Protecting Complexity with the Star Pû Method reveals the multiplicity of the cast members’ approaches to movement and performance, as well as their varied histories. With healing as a core facet through movement, breath, communal connection and vocal sound, LVJ asks whether the performance encounter provides a space that makes healing actually possible. With an openness to the lessons accrued by failure, the Star Pû Method makes any attempt at healing a form of blessing.
These two works share core principles yet are expressed in a completely different way given the age, life, cultural and artistic experience of the performers, as well as the setting in which it is performed. LVJ is interested in the two casts of performers performing for each other and sharing their experience with each other as a way to learn about the work further.
Tickets + Details
The event is free and open to Princeton students, faculty and staff. Free tickets are required. To reserve a seat, log-in with Princeton net ID to the University Ticketing website, then select your tickets.
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COVID-19 Guidance + Updates
Per Princeton University policy, all guests are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and to wear a mask when indoors.
Accessibility
Visit our Venues and Studios section for accessibility information at our various locations. Guests in need of access accommodations are invited to contact the Lewis Center at 609-258-5262 or email LewisCenter@princeton.edu at least one week in advance of the event date.
