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The Dance Enthusiast's Social Distance Dance Video Series: Matthew Westerby shares "Notes from Afar"

credits for video:
Performance/Editing: Matthew Westerby

Video: Steven Wachel

Music: Bryan Senti & Dustin O’Halloran

Filmed on location in Robertson County, Texas

for more information on Matthew Westerby and his work click here

Matthew, how are you and your near and dear ones doing? 

Doing well. In March we made a quick decision to go to my in-laws in Bremond, Texas. We drove across country for 4 days - my husband and I and our dog, Macy Grey.

The transition from East Harlem to rural Texas was abrupt, but glad we were away from the city during the early days of the pandemic. We returned in early June, right before Texas exploded with COVID cases. 

What practices have helped you keep sane during this time of pandemic, social distancing, and unrest?

Keeping busy with creating art (solo)... seems odd to not have my company of dancers around, but also refreshing to work on solo material for the first time in years. Trying to watch the news to take in what we need to hear but also trying to unplug at times to keep from going crazy.

What are you most grateful for at this time?

Still finding ways to connect with family overseas and friends here and elsewhere. Virtual life is so extensive these days.

What do you dream for the dance of the future?

That we can all return to the spaces we love to work in, be around the people we love to work with, and rebuild that community that is so special in the dance world.

What thoughts would you most like to share with The Dance Enthusiast audience?

The video I made was inspired by the fear of isolation in vast spaces far from where I think I belong.

The isolation we all feel/have felt is real and the best way I’ve figured to deal with it is by knowing we all feel the same.