SARAH'S SUNDAY SCOOP FROM October 8TH, 2016
By: Sarah Trested
INTERVIEW WITH KYL/D'S NEW COMPANY MEMBER: Keila Perez-Vega
(SARAH): Hey Keila! I wanted to know, what inspired you to audition for KYL/D?
(KEILA): Prior to auditioning, I was doing more project based pieces and I wanted something more consistent. The dancers here are very different as far as dance background and style, but compliment each other very nicely. I thought this is the perfect atmosphere to grow as an artist and challenge myself. I am also intrigued by Kun-Yang’s creative process, as well as the way he talks about dance and how he creates movement.
(SARAH): So how does your experience with KYL/D relate to your previous training?
(KEILA): Studying at UArts forced me to be versatile and to be willing to take correction and direction well. Part of what makes Kun-Yang’s work so beautiful is that in the sections of uniformity, you can tell we are open and versatile to the way we move, both independently and as a whole. I learned how to pick up choreography quickly while working with Eleone Dance Theatre and at KYL/D we are forced to act like a sponge by absorbing as much material as possible.
(SARAH): You grew up in Northern New Jersey. What are some differences between dance in your hometown and dance here in Philadelphia?
(KEILA): Specifically, my town has a lot of studios that were competition based. I decided to go to a performing arts high school where I built a lot of connections with artists in New York. I was also apart of the youth ensemble at Montclair which gave me access to a lot of connections with professors as well as artists in New York. Being in Philadelphia gives me a lot of access to the resources in the city, plus its close to New York and other places. There are also a lot of universities here in Philadelphia, as well as many experienced artists that have traveled around the world and have a lot to offer to the city.
(SARAH): Now that you are deep into rehearsals learning company repertory, how do you think Kun-Yang’s creative process translates from one piece to another?
(KEILA): As a new company member, I’m learning whether it's new material or old based on differences in movement quality, intention, etc. Kun-Yang is very focused on creative embodiment, as well as energy and how that translates in space. His work is very specific with intention; focus; and relationships, especially with other dancers. Creatively he is very intentional, which I appreciate because I can find myself within the intention and I think it translates differently for everyone.
(SARAH): Final question, what 3 words would you use to describe KYL/D?
(KEILA): Community, curiosity and strength
WANT TO KNOW A LITTLE MORE ABOUT keila? CHECK OUT HIS BIO ON OUR DANCE ARTISTS PAGE
QUESTIONS/COMMENTS/FEEDBACK? TELL US WHAT YOU THINK