The dance films (filmed by local artist Mark Valley) show several different scenes from the inspired story, acting as another layer to this interdisciplinary show. Original music composed and performed by the artists of Ancient Path, use a variety of instruments (violin, horn, flute, piano, drums, voices) to paint an inner landscape that the dancers interact with. The audio recordings intermittently carry the plot of the story, bringing the audience into the unknown world the story is evoking. The performance of barefaced revolves around two dancers portraying the main characters of the story, sharing the stage with a mixed-medium sculpture resembling an abstract mountain (designed and built by local artist and sculptor Mark Sugiuchi). We have been bringing this story to life (off and on) for three years, with a brilliant team of artists and collaborators. Inspired by Lewis’ novel, this unique retelling of the myth of Cupid and Psyche transports its audience to world unknown, laying bare the human condition. The story follows two sisters as they traverse the frontier of truth, trust and devotion.

Considered perhaps his best work, although not as well known, Till We Have Face s has inspired us to tell this story through dance. We are Mikaela Brown and Mackenzie Valley, co-artist directors of Elu Dance Company (see about our company here!) and we have created a thrilling performance based on a novel by beloved C.S. The show will premiere September 14th and we need to raise funds for final production costs and to lower ticket prices to make it accessible. Lewis’ Till We Have Faces is a dance production infusing film, narrative, original music and live dance performance.

Bareface cs lewis