F=Gm1m2/r2 | corimarquisix

F=Gm1m2/r2 (The Universal Law of Gravitation)

2011 | 10 min

A physical duet exploring the force of gravity that exists between all objects in space. Gravity, in the physical sense, is responsible for maintaining our presence on Earth’s surface, for sustaining cosmic orbits, for the coalescence of gases and the formation of planets, for the ocean tides, for falling. The more massive an object, the greater it dents the fabric of spacetime, and the greater its pull on everything around it. It is ubiquitous in our lives; we can jump, and leave the surface of the Earth, overcoming the pull of gravity, but it is momentary. We quickly return.

Gravity, then, in a relational sense, is responsible for what we move towards, what we remember, our attractions, how we inevitably collide with those who pull us in, who dent the fabric around us. F=Gm1m2/r2 (The Universal Law of Gravitation) seeks to explore not only our physical relationship with gravity, but also our interpersonal and emotional relationships that gravity dictates. If left alone, do we continue to orbit around each other until we coalesce? Is that, then, creation or destruction? How do we overcome the pull of another, or is it futile to even try? And if gravity cannot keep lovers orbiting around one another indefinitely, what can? In a sometimes somber, often tender, exploration, F=Gm1m2/r2 (The Universal Law of Gravitation) addresses what happens when we resist gravity, and what happens when we let ourselves fall.

CREDITS

Performers: Alexander Dones, Cori Marquis

Music: Salem

Costume Design and Construction: Brian Hendricks

Created, in part, through a generous space grant from Chen Dance Center

PERFORMANCES

Young Choreographer's Festival, Symphony Space [NYC] June 2, 2012

CoolNY 2012 Festival, WHITE WAVE John Ryan Theater [NYC] February 3 & 5, 2012

Conduit Dance, Guest Artist Series [Portland, OR] January 2012

WAXworks, Triskelion Arts [NYC] December 18, 2011

Newsteps Choreographers' Series, Chen Dance Center [NYC] December 1-3, 2011

PMT House of Dance [NYC] November 12, 2011

SoakingWET, West End Theater [NYC] October 6-9, 2011

PRESS

"F=Gm₁m₂/r2(The Universal Law of Gravitation) choreographed by Cori Marquis and Alexander Dones was a powerhouse of a performance. It was haunting and arresting and possessed an intensity that was sensual and passionate. Filled with daring partnering that was based on a joint trust that was evident. This is a very personal journey we [have] witnessed, she trust[s] him and he is always there for her." - Darrell Wood, NYC Dance Stuff

"The partnering [in F=Gm1m2/r2] was intricate and perfectly executed..." - Maura Donohue, Culturebot

"'F=Gm₁m₂/r2 (The Universal Law of Gravitation)' choreographed and danced by Cori Marquis and Alexander Dones...used the duet form to explore the tensions and comforts of coupledom. Marquis and Dones...were still in thrall to being in love, but just realizing that love does not necessarily conquer all. As Dones made his final exit, Marquis leaped across the stage desperate at his departure. Desperation gave way to joy as she landed on his back, content in his continued presence." - Carol Pardo, danceviewtimes