10 QUESTIONS WITH KELLY KORFHAGE

How many times have you performed Adagio for Two Dancers? I have performed the work four times. Last year at the Heinz Poll Dance Festival, Lakeside Chautauqua, our virtual performance this past October, and for the filming of our upcoming collaboration with the BlueWater Chamber Orchestra.

What is the trickiest part of the choreography for you? I think the trickiest part isn’t necessarily a specific step. It’s the ability to be exact and consistent with every movement. Something as little as stepping an inch in the wrong direction could cause something to not go as planned. This piece needs to be rehearsed multiple times every day to gain consistency.

What are you thinking at the top that sit lift? I’m thinking about keeping my body tight, while simultaneously reminding myself to appear calm, graceful, and goddess-like.

What was the biggest coaching tip you have received when learning the piece? This tip came from both Richard Dickinson and Jane Startzman. To dance big and use the space. There are plenty of moments in the piece where I could play it safe, but it is much more exciting for the audience if I take chances and step or jump far away from my partner before he catches me.

What has been difference performing this in studio for film versus a live audience? When performing this for a live show, we only have to do it once. When we filmed it, we had to do it 2.5 times in a row to get all of the necessary shots. It was a lot more tiring, but the final product will be awesome with all of the “ movie magic. ”

How would you describe the work Verb does in one word? Diverse

What has been your favorite memory thus far this season? Definitely rehearsing and performing Adagio for Two Dancers. It is one of my favorite roles I’ ve ever performed and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to have a second go at it. There’s always room for improvement which keeps it fun.

How have you been coping as an artist during the pandemic? I feel a new sense of gratitude for every day I am able to step into a studio. I found that having to go with the flow attitude has made it easier for me to deal with the many changes and uncertainties.

What is your favorite holiday tradition? My family always celebrates Christmas the Saturday after the real holiday. We call it “Fakemas. ” I look forward to that every year!

What are you are looking forward to next? I am excited for the virtual premiere of FEAST: a ballet on November 27th! It is a work I co-choreographed with fellow dancer Christina Lindhout and the Creative Destruction Collective.