Hanna Brictson grew up in River North Dance Chicago, first as a student, starting at the age of twelve, then as a company member straight out of high school, eventually working her way up to rehearsal assistant. This week, the Elgin native and Princess Grace Award nominee makes her choreographic debut with the company, which premieres as part of the Auditorium Theatre’s “Made in Chicago” series, in honor of its 125th anniversary season.
Many dancers move from company to company. What has kept you at River North?
There has always been a build happening. It’s never been stagnant on the artistic side. As a dancer you’re always searching for a challenge; [artistic director] Frank Chaves is always bringing in new choreographers and challenging the dancers in new ways. There’s also the jazz style, which we’re now getting away from with contemporary work, but it will always be our foundation. Jazz is my background so the environment is comfortable and still challenging.
Tell me a little about your new work, “Beast.”
The piece is danced by all the women in the company. I’m also dancing in it which is a challenge in and of itself. It’s based around my life experiences that have pushed me to have the personality I have. It’s about pushing the limits of what we think we can do. We all believe we can handle only so much; it’s about pushing beyond the walls we set up for ourselves. When we break through these walls, we sometimes discover the alter ego we have as females, our inner beast.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Just that to choreograph on friends has been the most special opportunity, because I know these people inside and out. Which is what River North is all about; we’re a family. (Sharon Hoyer)
At the Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Congress, (800)982-2787. Saturday, March 28 at 7:30pm.
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