Wallstories

A thrilling hourlong contemporary dance piece, "Wallstories" is an episodic exploration of the personal emotions and political issues surrounding the building of, living with, and eventual tearing down of the Berlin Wall.

Choreographed by native Berliner Nejla Y. Yatkin and fiercely danced by her dynamic New York–based company, NY2Dance, the work derives its expressive power from the choreography's bold use of full-bodied actions initiated from deep in the torso, plus the exciting combination of big and fast: humongous movements done with startling speed. While affecting Bach music, catchy Pink Floyd tunes, and heart-rending text convey the feelings and history associated with the Berlin Wall (from both Eastern and Western perspectives), dancers charge across the stage, devouring space with life-or-death determination, hurl themselves angrily against the back wall, drop to the floor with anguish, and explode into dramatic, often tilted body shapes or canny gestures reflecting the insightful and moving stories.

Presented by NY2Dance as part of the New York International Fringe Festival at Dixon Place, 161A Chrystie St., NYC. Aug. 12–28. Remaining performances: Mon., Aug. 15, 3 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 21, 4:15 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 27, 4 p.m.; Sun. Aug 28, 4:15 p.m. (866) 468-7619 or www.fringenyc.org.