DanceNOW [nyc] “encourages artists to explore the challenge of creating work that is marked by brevity but still far-reaching in its clarity, influence and effect.” The festival is turning 15 this year, and remains a great opportunity for both audiences and artists to experience a range of new work in an invigorating and celebratory context.

The festival is comprised of a series of programs in multiple venues, with the majority of shows taking place at Dance Theater Workshop and Joe’s Pub in September and October. The September 12 lineup at DTW included short performances by ten artists whose work ranged from excerpts of longer pieces (like David Dorfman’s solo from Lightbulb Theory), dance theater skits (like The Comedy Trio Happy Hour’s Robes), and works in progress (like ZviDance’s Zoom). Playing best to the sold-out crowd were pieces like Claire Porter/PORTABLES’ funny and smart-slapstick Breaking News, a local TV news satire, and Monica Bill Barnes & Company’s here we are, a tense, tender solo danced to Nina Simone’s arresting voice.

Though one could offer the criticism that such short-format work runs the risk of leaving viewers unsatisfied, that aspect is also part of the purpose and beauty of DanceNOW [nyc]: to whet our appetites and make us hungry for more.

For complete information, visit: dancenownyc.org.