Nick Miami Benz, Shapeshifter, Storyteller, Self.

Nick is a Leo-nominated performance artist trained in dances from the Afro, Latinx and Indigenous diasporas, focusing on the embodiment of animal movements. While studying dance in New York City, they worked as an equestrian for The Metropolitan Opera, which inspired them to return to theatre as an actor and singer. Nickʼs acting training is founded on the Meisner technique and voice work through the Lovetri method. Their theatre credits include Godʼs Lake, Little Red Warrior, Blackhorse and working with Atomic Vaudeville, Mascall Dance, Netflix and John Fluevog. In addition, Nick Miami Benz shares their expertise in movement through holistic exercise coaching in Vancouver.

Dance Piece / Performance: PLUMA

Description:

Pluma is a contemporary burlesque dance story. Inspired by my study of animal movements, brought to life with my training in the femme archetypes from Afro and Indigenous dances. With spoken word, singing, rhythmic music and burlesque costumes this satirical sincere work tells the story of my existence as a marginalized artist in the contemporary world of dance. I dance stories tracing my families origins and my relationship to the history of American music. In a world of black and white my work lives in full color.

General Technical Requirements: Lighting, scrim, sound system, marlee floor, ballet bar

Length of Performance: 20min

Audience Type: Mature

Does the work require tech residency?: Yes, tech will be updated

How many days/hours of on-site rehearsal do you require pre-performance?: 3

Number of Performers on Tour (including choreographer): 1

How do you define this work?: Burlesque, Contemporary, dance theatre, story, spoken word, singing

Does your work include outreach / community engagement?: Could involve workshop with dance theatre

Performance history of this project: This project was developed through the Dance West Re-centering / Margins workshop and in collaboration with local Vancouver dance artists. Performed at the Wong Theatre at Simon Fraser University.

Video: full length video is available upon request

Trailer:

Email: nbenzlife@gmail.com

IG: @benzhd

Located: Vancouver, BC