Steph Harkness is the choreographer of How Lucky Are We, a trio that will be performed at Exhibition Park for the IN THE PARK series. We are lucky to share some insights from Steph about how the work’s themes have come across throughout the inspiration, process, and performance of the work. Be sure to catch this performance Friday May 30 at 7PM, Saturday May 31 at 12noon, or Sunday June 1 at 12noon! Plus, Steph will be leading a workshop on Saturday May 31 at 10:30 AM related to the process of making the choreography for How Lucky Are We!
What motivated the creation of How Lucky Are We?
The creation of How Lucky Are We was motivated by my experience as a queer non-binary person, finding authentic joy, playfulness, and embodiment through my queer friendships and community. This piece is an ode to queer joy and the catharsis of simply being seen.
How have collaborators informed your process and/or the experience of this live work?
My collaborators are some of my closest friends and greatest inspirations. I felt working with my friends was important in the creation of this work as it explores the potential of queer friendship and chosen family to nurture authenticity. Creating from a genuine place of play was made possible through our friendship and the space we foster together.
What does it mean to you to share this work now?
As an emerging queer dance artist and choreographer I am thrilled to be sharing my work as part of the Guelph Dance Festival. When I started making this piece in 2023, I had originally imagined it being performed outdoors, so to get the opportunity now to reimagine the work for the park is very exciting.
What do you hope the audience will take away from the work?
I hope that the joy radiating from the performers sneaks up on them and suddenly they catch themselves smiling and leaning in a little closer.