One of Idaho’s most unique performing arts companies, the Open Arms Dance Project, is featured in a new piece on Idaho Public Television’s website. “Flipping the Script” takes viewers behind the scenes as the group rehearses for its biggest concert ever and then performs at the Morrison Center for the Performing Arts in Boise.
Open Arms, founded by Idahoan Megan Brandel, is an inclusive, multi-generational dance company. Its dancers range in age from 7 to 76. Some have disabilities; others identify as able-bodied.
“I take anybody in Open Arms,” says Brandel. “They don’t have to have any dance training. They don’t even have to be able to walk. I think that representation is key, because that is usually not centered and highlighted and spotlighted in the performing arts. And so that really flips the script and says, ‘Look closer and see the beauty in these people. Look beyond your typical idea of what dance is or what a dancer looks like.’”
The story, produced by Marcia Franklin and directed by Troy Shreve, is part of a nationwide #PBSForTheArts initiative highlighting arts groups that focus on social issues and which kept creating even during the COVID-19 pandemic. After a competitive grant application process, Idaho Public Television was one of 10 PBS stations chosen to participate in the initiative.
“When the grant opportunity came up, I immediately thought of Open Arms,” says producer Marcia Franklin. “I was drawn to the company not only because of its diverse dancers and mission, but I was also intrigued that Megan kept her company going during the pandemic, and that it even thrived during that time.”
Indeed, during the height of the pandemic, members met online and choreographed dances. They then performed them outside and made several videos. The work culminated in two performances on April 28, 2022, at the Morrison Center.
“I’ve been an aficionado of dance in all its forms since I was a child,” says Franklin. “The choreography of Open Arms is striking in that it’s both serious and uplifting. It was a joy to watch the dancers — some of whom have great physical challenges — move through complex choreography.”
The piece and a preview can be streamed on Idaho Public Television’s media player, Facebook page, Instagram feed and YouTube channel. The story will also be part of a new online arts series being developed by Franklin and Shreve that will premiere in December. Watch this space for more news about that!