BWW Interviews: Chris McCord and the MEN IN MOTION at the Beam Theatre

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to witness Men In Motion at the Beam Theatre here in Atlanta, and I was marveled at the display of young men (and not so young) pouring their hearts and spirits onto the stage, further affirming that the joys of creative movement are for everybody.

One thing that is undeniable is the control, strength and athleticism it takes to be a great dancer. If you took a cast member from the show and paired them up with your average professional sports player, you'd be puzzled to guess which was which. In one of the highlighted pieces - Self Portrait (a collaborative work of Dana Marie Lupton, Chris Mc Cord, Kyle Fucron and Charles Bennett), McCord, who's also the Director of Men In Motion, talked about how he ran track in addition to his dance talents, and he was one of the fastest and more agile. As a matter of fact, most of the men in the cast boast resumes that include track, football, baseball, soccer, swimming and other sports as supplemental activities they're involved in, and not just as a hobby, but title-holding, state-ranking, nationally recognized sportsmen.

I got the chance to sit down with Chris and a few of the Men In Motion group members (Ben Grooms, 13 & LaVance Cuiellette, Jr.,17) to ask them a few questions about this awesome program and dance from the male perspective, in general.

Rob: Chris, what is most surprising perk or blessing you've received from pursuing a career in the arts?

Chris: It's definitely been watching the shift in the young men when they have their own "Ah-Hah" moment. It's really rewarding to help them explore and navigate their development into manhood through the medium of dance.

Rob: Yep, absolutely. It's a beautiful thing when it all clicks!

Rob: When did you first realize you had a desire to dance?

Ben: I went to see an Alvin Ailey show and I told my parents I wanted to dance like them. I found Men In Motion and I really liked it, so I stayed. [chuckles]

LaVance: For me, it was the passing of Michael Jackson - I was in 7th grade. They were showing all his videos and performances on TV and I started to learn the moves and imitate his work. Sparks ignited and I got serious about dance when I entered high school.

Rob: Wow! it's amazing how such tragic events can produce such inspiration.

Rob: What is the most challenging component of working with an all-male dance troupe?

Chris: You know, honestly, it's not even the young men, it's selling the idea of what we do to donors and pushing the program to drum up supporters. They don't get it, at first. It's too out-of-the-box.

Rob: Well, we appreciate it. It's amazing what you do here and the program is so rare, but so needed.

Rob: Finish this statement. Without dance in my life, I'd be_________?

Ben: Lost.

LaVance: Silent

Rob: If you could give a word of advice to a young man who feels discouraged from dancing, what would you say?

Chris: It's better to be your unique self. There's great reward in taking the unbeaten bath. Always lead and don't be afraid to go against the crowd.

Rob: What changes have you seen in yourself since you started dancing?

Ben: I'm more responsible. I'm more committed. I've learned that I'm human - mistakes will happen, and it's okay.

LaVance: I'm more open and expressive. It's given me an avenue to speak out.

Rob: Absolutely. People don't realize dance can have such lasting effects.

LaVance: I've learned so much about myself through dance.

Rob: Name a pro and con to the term "male dancer". Personally, I cringe at the word.

Chris: [ponders] The biggest con is that people make assessments and put unnecessary labels on you. The pro is that it gives you the opportunity to educate people and spread awareness and understanding.

Rob: So, what's next for you?

Ben: My dream is the Fordham/Ailey School program. I'd like to earn a degree in African American History and then join Ailey! [smiles]

Rob: I could definitely see that.

LaVance: UNC School of the Arts. I want to continue to better my craft and pursue my M.F.A.

Rob: Awesome schools. I wish you both all the best.

LaVance: Thank you.

Ben: Thank you! Enjoy the rest of your afternoon.

LaVance: You should stay for the next show, too! [laughs]

Rob: Thank you so much for your time, Chris!

Chris: Thank you, sir!

To learn more about the Men In Motion program, please log on to their website: http://www.movinginthespirit.org/programs/men-in-motion/ .

Let's continue to support young men in the arts!

PHOTO CREDIT: Moving in the Spirit