Set to Miles Davis’ “Bitches Brew,” Karole Armitage explores the meaning of life in her explosive world premiere. In her ballet, the lead dancer represents the seeker. “This person is trying to understand how the world functions and our role in this world,” says Karole. We sat down with Soloist Ji Young Chae to find out what it is like to dance this role. 

Tell us a little bit about this role and the dancing involved. 

Karole told me in the beginning that my role is one of mystery. I am trying to find the meaning of life through exploring the world. Sometimes the worlds change between dream and reality. It has been a great challenge because the movement has to be constantly changing. I can’t stay the same. Karole pushed me to keep bringing forth more energy. This is what I love about contemporary dance. I can be so free. 

What is your biggest challenge dancing in this work?

The two biggest challenges dancing in this work are my hair and the music. First of all, I’ve never had my hair down like this in any ballet. Usually it is in a high bun or French twist. It was a big deal for me to dance with my hair down. I could barely see most of the time. Plus, my hair is so black!

The music is so cool and jazzy; however, it is also tremendously difficult to dance to. There is no set rhythm and we can’t see each other backstage so no one is there to give us cues. We have to rely completely on our own count. The trumpet sections has high notes, so we have to count to ourselves right after the high notes. If we miss the trumpet, then we miss everything. We have to listen to the music over and over again to internalize it.

The costumes are so cool! 

Yes! I was so excited to wear the costumes—they are so unique. The colors represent different aspects of life. But my costume is a solid grey, so I have to really show the audience who I am. I have to really put my personality into every movement. 

What do you want the audience to take away?

The piece starts out with my solo. It is just me on stage. I want the audience to immediately feel a sense of mystery. I want them to think, “Who is she? What is she doing?” I want to spark their curiosity. The wonderful thing is that each person will take away something different from this work. It is up to their own imagination.