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Cocteau Variations
A duet for myself and Cynthia McLaughlin — a study in formalism set to the impressionistic music of the Cocteau Twins.
Cocteau Variations is a slippery study in formalism. McLaughlin and I paint ourselves into evolving Rorschachs — abstract moments of bodies held not exactly in repose but in an ever-alert stillness — then move on, a jumble of limbs furling and swiping before the next test.
Performed at the Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center, Washington, DC.
“Willis with his dance partner Cynthia McLaughlin make an intriguing, even sensual couple… the piece finely sketches a relationship both formal and emotional.”
— Lisa Traiger, DanceView Times (2004)Cocteau Variations — excerpt (2003 version) · 1:33