AscenDANCE FEATURES
HEATHER MALOY’S “Coming Up for air”
At the heart of AscenDANCE is Maloy’s newest creation, a visually striking and emotionally resonant world premiere.
Inspired by moments when laughter breaks through even the heaviest circumstances, the work journeys from a landscape of collective weight and isolation into a vibrant expression of release, connection, and shared joy. Through sweeping ensemble movement, bold theatrical imagery, and a final explosion of color and vitality, Coming Up for Air captures the transformative power of a single moment of lightness—and how it can ripple outward to change everything.
PLUS the revival of two exceptional works of dance theater
SALVATORE AIELLO’S MASTERPIECE
“CLOWNS AND OTHERS”
Sponsored by Ford & Jeanene Perry
One of Aiello’s most celebrated creations—Clowns and Others is a masterful blend of humor, humanity, and emotional candor. It was central to our director Heather Maloy’s own artistic development during her years dancing under him, shaping the choreographic voice that would eventually lead her to found Terpsicorps. Bringing this work back to the stage is a rare opportunity for today’s audiences to experience a cornerstone of American dance history—and for our dancers to inherit a lineage that has profoundly influenced who we are as a company.
and
HEATHER MALOY’S “HUNGER”
Sponsored by the Meek Family Foundation
One of Heather Maloy’s defining choreographic works, HUNGER is a compelling exploration of human desire and need, presented through twelve distinct vignettes. From moments of humor and absurdity to profound pathos and insight, this work captures the full emotional spectrum of the human experience. HUNGER not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the essential question: “What do you hunger for?” Parental advisory: This piece contains theatrical depictions of violence. Use your own discretion for children under age 13.
HUNGER is proud to partner with MANNA FoodBank in Asheville and Second Harvest Food Bank in Winston-Salem to highlight the realities of food insecurity in our communities. This collaboration informs the choreography and brings a meaningful, real-world connection to the performance, reminding audiences that our basic needs—and how they are met—shape the human experience.