Editor's Note: Read the related story--
Mark Morris Dance Group Presents LOOK OF LOVE Review — Exploring Hues of the Bacharach Palette
It wasn’t planned as a tribute but it turned out that way…
Burt Bacharach, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 94, gave us the music that is the life force animating the Mark Morris Dance Group’s Look of Love performances. This tour has included various US cities, and more are to come. On March 20 - 23, Mark Morris Dance Group performs at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, just down the street from the troupe’s namesake Dance Center.
Here, Picture This Post (PTP) talks to Mark Morris (MM) about Look of Love — how and why it came to be. Along the way, he gives a glimpse into his ideas of dance and music in general.
(PTP) Did you know Bacharach personally?
(MM) We met a few times on Zoom with our respective 'people'. He was friendly, interested, eager for us to treat the music lightly and seriously. He approved of our early ideas, and basically gave us carte blanche for the show. We happily met in person when he attended the last dress rehearsal before opening to the public, at the Broad in Santa Monica. He was very generous and encouraging. He died not long after. (RIPBB.)
What do you most appreciate about Bacharach’s scores— as both a lover of music and a choreographer?
The amazing variety influences and references, thrilling syncopation, melodic surprises, imagination, swing. And Hal David's brilliant lyrics.
What sparked the creation of this work and how it was first launched in the world?
Ethan Iverson and I had considered working with Mr. Bacharach's music long ago but didn't act on it until this full-length dance. It was a very arduous project, because of the terrible dangers and unpredictability of the COVID catastrophe. It was frustratingly hard to get everyone in the same room for a long time. I'm glad of how it fell together with the help of the dancers.
It is extremely entertaining, delightful, and not too long.
How does Burt Bacharach’s music provide opportunities to you as a choreographer?
I treat all the music I choose to choreograph by its interest and appeal to me. I don't see dances in my head!
In rehearsing THE LOOK OF LOVE, what did you especially work on and want the performers to convey?
The swing and the variety of the music is irresistible. And as there are lyrics for most of the pieces. It is important to bring out the stories: most of which are concerned with love and heartbreak. People like that.
Are there aspects of the stagecraft or costumes that you think are most important to helping you convey the essence of Bacharach’s music and your choreography for this work?
The dance is for 10 dancers, 7 musicians, 5 chairs and 5 pillows. Isaac Mizrahi designed the garments, chairs and pillows. Nicole Pearce designed the dramatic lighting. Ethan Iverson arranged the music from his Jazz point of view. David's words, and Burt's ecstatic music take care of it all!
WHEN AND WHERE:
Seattle - Meany Hall for the Performing Arts - March 14 - 16, 2024
New York City - Brooklyn Academy of Music - March 20 - 23, 2024
Philadelphia - Zellerbach Theatre- May 31 - June 1, 2024
Nashville - James K. Polk Theater - June 28 - 29, 2024
WHEN AND WHERE:
Seattle - Meany Hall for the Performing Arts - March 14 - 16, 2024
New York City - Brooklyn Academy of Music - March 20 - 23, 2024
Philadelphia - Zellerbach Theatre- May 31 - June 1, 2024
Nashville - James K. Polk Theater - June 28 - 29, 2024
