Ugly, Big, and Beautiful

Mathew Janczewski doesn’t carry himself as if he is the next big thing. After more than ten years of creating independent dance with St. Paul’s Arena Dances, Janczewski has retained the freshness of a student—enthusiastic, self-doubting, and open. But his work—sweeping, lovely, intense modern dance—is a far cry from the tentative steps of a mere student. In fact, his latest evening-length piece, “Ugly,” an examination of our culture’s obsession with set ideals of beauty and behavior, was commissioned by the Walker Art Center.

The Walker sponsors local artists in various events, including the summer showcase Momentum, but Walker performing arts curator Philip Bither says it’s “quite an honor” to have a full evening of work commissioned. The Walker has been following Janczewski ever since his 2001 Momentum performance. “He’s remarkably talented,” says Bither, who calls Janczewski’s dances “exciting and physically virtuosic, as well as emotionally resonant.”

Janczewski has been mulling over the ideas for “Ugly” for six or seven years, ever since he saw a silo with a graffitist’s word ugly written on the side. In “Ugly,” Janczewski wants to weave together big beautiful movement and emotional impact. “I want to touch people,” he says. “I love just dancing for dancing’s sake, but there’s always something brewing that I want to get to.”

Drawing on reality TV, Internet dating, and Baroque court dance, “Ugly” is a big project in more ways than one. Electronic music innovator Morton Subotonik created the score, and because big presenters notice what other big presenters book, the Walker’s endorsement could mean national attention for Janczewski—and, Janczewski hopes, another step toward establishing Arena Dances as a full-time dance company. In the meantime, Twin Citians can enjoy “Ugly.” Says Bither, “I think this is a perfect time for Mathew’s work to be seen.” Oct. 18–20. Walker Art Center McGuire Theater, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-375-7600