Back in 1971 a group of Dartmouth students began experimenting with physical form. These athletic and curious kids – Robby Barnett, Alison Becker Chase, Martha Clarke, Lee Harris, Moses Pendleton, Michael Tracy, and Jonathan Wolken – became the founders of Pilobolus, one of the most inventive companies of our time. Continuing in the spirit of collaboration, Pilobolus is currently directed by Robby Barnett and Michael Tracy as many of the others have gone out on their own to create distinct projects.

Experimenting with their exquisite brand of contortion that entangles bodies into almost impossible shapes, the company has won abundant awards for its vision and creativity, including a 1997 primetime Emmy for outstanding achievement in cultural programming. As a testimony to living sculpture, the company’s dancers share each other’s weight to explore new ways to lift, swing, flip, and balance each other as they challenge the laws of physics and arrive at the impossible.

Pilobolus has a repertory of over 85 original works, including the brilliant “Contradance,” “All Is Not Lost,” and “Femme Noir.” The company tours the world annually, breaking each summer for a three-week residency at the Joyce Theater in New York. In 2007, the company added a new dimension called the International Collaborators Project, partnering with invited artists to expand the process of creation.

– (MK)

Pilobolus Information

• Public Transportation: Varies by venue
• Handicapped Accessibility: Depends on venue
• Performances/Programs: Well over 100 performances in different venues and cities both nationally and internationally
• Ticket Prices: Vary widely depending on event, venue, and date
• Membership: Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated.