The Rioult Dance Company, founded in 1994, is a modern dance company known for its sensual and expressive style of modern dance. Husband and wife duo Pascal Rioult and Joyce Herring lead the company in all its endeavors. Not only does Rioult Dance Company tour around the United States and annually perform in New York, but they also offer an arts education program in hopes of expanding modern dance education.
On Friday, July 26, 2019 at The Great Lawn on Main Street in Westhampton Beach, Rioult Dance Company is offering a free performance to kick-off the Second Annual Westhampton Beach Project Dance & Music Festival (Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27). With two signature works choreography by founder Pascal Rioult, attendees are promised an unforgettable, modern dance performance!
What can attendees expect from your July 26, 2019 performance?
PR: They can expect a very varied and sophisticated program with top level dancers and contagious energy. My work is known for being extremely musical and accessible. It is meant to elevate the spirit and touch the heart. Everyone can relate to its content. City is about what happens when people live and interact – or not – with each other. Views of the Fleeting World is an Asian-inspired poetic journey reflecting on the fleeting moments one remembers from life.
What is unique about Rioult Dance company?
PR: It is some of the most musical intelligent choreography around. It is abstract yet always resonates emotionally with the audience.
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Pascal Rioult (third from left) at the Rioult Gala. (Courtesy Photo) |
What sets you apart from other modern dance companies?
PR: Merging my two cultures [French and American] … It has been described as American Modern Dance with a European touch. The work is always inspired by many other artistic influences edgy, yet elegant.
Can you tell us about your modern dance in-school arts education and community outreach program?
PR: For years we have taken pride in our school outreach program. We introduce children to the ART of dance. They practice themselves, learning the basics of Modern Dance and discover their creative powers in making they own version of one of my pieces. Our popular Fables project provides fourteen young students with the opportunity to dance with the professional company.
Your company has performed at many prestigious locations, what is one theater, festival or location you wish to perform at?
PR: So many! Maybe the Spoleto Festival in Italy and the Mostly Mozart Festival in New York.
The Rioult Dance Company performance will begin at 8:30 p.m. The evening will also showcase Patmore Lewis and Janinah Burnett.
For more information, visit whbproject.com.
