Through the years, ECS has been established as a one-of-a-kind mentoring program that has provided over 70 NYC choreographers with the tools and resources to create new works. It is conceived and administered by Mare Nostrum Elements, a non-profit arts organization based in Queens, NY.
This year we further our support for five ECS alumni by guiding them to self-produce 30-40 minute works in a split-bill format at two distinguished venues – LaGuardia Performing Arts Center and Flushing Town Hall.
2025 Choreographers and Their Work
Susanne McHugh
“Below the Bottom” by Susanne McHugh
“Below the Bottom” is a powerful dance work by Susanne (Susie) McHugh, delving into the raw reality of mental illness and the resilience behind recovery. Inspired by Susie’s personal journey and her work in the mental health field, the piece captures the complexity of mental health challenges and the non-linear path of healing.
Jiemin Yang
“In the Noodle” (Excerpts) by Jiemin Yang
In the Noodle (working title) delves into the rich traditions of Fuzhounese longevity noodles, exploring food as a symbol of connection and heritage. This excerpt follows a master noodle maker’s process—from flour to dough to noodle—drawing poignant parallels to human relationships and cultural bonds.
“Portraits of the Moon” (Excerpts) by Jiemin Yang
This dance work explores the moon’s deep symbolism in Chinese culture, weaving movement, original music, interview audio, and multimedia to reflect on separation, reunion, and home. Inspired by lunar myths, poetry, and Asian immigrant journeys, it celebrates resilience, longing, and cultural identity.
Caroline Brethenoux
“Le bleu déchirant du ciel / The Tearing Blue of the Sky” by Caroline Brethenoux
“Le bleu déchirant du ciel / The Tearing Blue of the Sky” examines our complex relationship with the news and its emotional weight. Through The Story of Gaby, the show brings a deeply personal perspective to global events, following a young girl as she navigates the trauma of forced migration—balancing tragedy with the resilience of childhood.
ECS 2025 Line Up:
Fri, April 25, 7:30pm
Choreographers: Susanne McHugh &
Jiemin Yang
Sat, April 26, 7:30pm
Choreographers: Caroline Brethenoux & Jiemin Yang
Sun, April 27, 3:00pm
Choreographers: Caroline Brethenoux & Susanne McHugh
For more information, contact the LaGuardia Performing Arts Center at lpacboxoffice@lagcc.cuny.edu.
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