BOARD MEMBER

Dear Whimmers,

As a professional writer it’s hard to admit that the written word has its limits. After all, there are many masterful accounts of the human experience that appear in literature throughout the ages, and many of those capture the essence of sight, sound, taste and touch. Very few, however, manage to capture movement. Why is it that we inadvertently flinch when we see a footballer tackled on the field? Witnessing physical activity allows us to empathetically shapeshift. In watching dance we momentarily become one with the dancer: Stepping into their proverbial shoes (or bare feet) to feel the stage floor or the defiance of gravity. It’s a transformative experience, becoming that which we witness onstage.

But then again, we aren’t relegated solely to the role of spectator. Movement is available to us as participants whether we’re getting down on the public dance floor or privately within the confines of the kitchen. This year, Whim W’Him invites you to take classes at the Whim W’Him Contemporary Dance Center where you can nurture your imagination while engaging your body. Consider participating as a donor, where your funds support Whim W’Him in its efforts to bring new choreographers to the Northwest and tour nationally. Or consider upgrading to a membership for the remainder of the season, to see spectacular performances by an incredible array of artists, which include five new dancers who join the company from all corners of the U.S.

As a dedicated Whim W’Him Board member, I can assure you that there is no wrong way to participate. Your support can be as singular in vision or as multifaceted as you wish. All contribute to Whim W’Him’s success and global recognition.

Dance bypasses the cerebral: we may try to use words to describe dance, but these are only approximations.They sidestep that magical experience of movement itself. Whether you choose to watch, to learn, or to support, thank you for this dance.

Suzanne Shaw, Whim W’Him Board Member