Resident artists of Fermata Ballet Collective began the process of this project by creating individual choreographic phrases. After sharing each of our movement sets, we noticed that every one of us included a pulling, reaching, touching, or grasping motion within our desired movement. We theorized that these similar movements possibly came from our collective psyche of trying to navigate the pandemic, the shutdowns, the loneliness, the uncertainty and the need to feel a true and tactile connection with ourselves and others. We organized our individual movements into a dance, creating “GRASP”. This black and white film takes the viewer through our motions in an intimate way - allowing the audience to see the tendons, fingers, toes, muscles and eyes as we move with intention. After GRASP, we feature each of our resident artists as they perform improvisational dance and/or selected movements from the original choreography.

Fermata Ballet Collective (FBC) was founded by seven dancers in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic as a safe environment to create art and stability in our community while the world around us remains in unrest. During this pause in regular arts programming, FBC acts as a refuge for dancers who have found their careers and projects on hold due to the pandemic, as well as opportunities to explore dance art in a respectful and safe manner with a focus on inclusivity and social justice.

FBC is determined to cultivate a collaborative approach to the creative process, valuing the experience of each individual without judgment. Our goal is to support artists as they aim to create progressive content with respect, adaptability and responsibility. Genuine and resilient dancers who are committed to creating a safe and professional environment are welcome into our studios. FBC will not tolerate or condone discrimination against any individual regarding race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, appearance, religion, age or ability.