I have always found comfort and inspiration in nature. Throughout the year, I watch trees and how they change with each season. In winter the trees are bare and exposed. I notice how I feel bare and exposed. I wonder if they feel the struggles that I feel. In spring everything is new and aromatic, bounding with joy and purpose. Summertime brings feelings of east carefree days with warm slow breezes. In the fall I notice how the leaves are dry as my skin begins to dry, how they wave and rustle across cement...and they inspire me to dance in the warm sunshine. In this piece the dancers explore the possibility of trading places with the leaves.

Premiered at Around the Coyote, September 2004

Choreography: Nicole Gifford, Additional movement: Dancers
Dancers: Winter: Melissa Mallinson, Spring: Jennifer Sandoval, Summer: Melanie Palmer, Autumn: Kim Carli
Costumes: Designed and hand painted by Nan D’Ercoli
Music: Original music by Lou Donaldson
Musicians: Bass: Mark Blade, Guitar: Pete Nathan, Alto Sax: Martin Preininger, Organ: Bob Long, Drums: Jim Gifford
Lighting Design: Julie Ballard