An apprentice's experience and testimony

I began training as an apprentice for MCGD in the fall of 2010. As a recent graduate with a degree in dance and a new resident of New York City, I was thrilled at the chance to work with a professional dance company. I was able to learn a lot about what dancing for a company in New York was like during my apprenticeship and was also given the chance to intensely study the unique MCGD technique. I trained under Marie-Christine for approximately eight months as an apprentice and then moved up to a full company member, where I was able to perform with the company and showcase all the hard work I put in at the studio.

Performance opportunities included various open rehearsals and technique demos presented in Marie-Christine's private studio; a work in progress presented at the Fertile Ground series at Green Space in Long Island City; a preview of the company's newest creation, In and Out, at BAX/Brooklyn Arts Exchange; the culminating performance of NYC Dance Week presented at Salvatore Capezio Theater in the Peridance Center; a special guest performance with the Joffrey Ballet's Jazz & Contemporary Summer Intensive students at the LaGuardia High School of Performing Arts Concert Hall; and most recently, the world premiere of In and Out, which was performed at Danspace Project in the beautiful St. Marks Church.

Overall, the experience I had with MCGD was certainly a memorable one. I have grown a tremendous amount throughout my time there, not only technically, but as a dancer and a performer in general. Marie-Christine is a teacher who will push each dancer to their fullest ability, which is something I respect and appreciate. It is reassuring to have someone constantly pushing you in the studio and making you work harder even when you may feel like giving up. I needed someone like that throughout this process, and I am glad she was able to do that for me.

The training process has and still is at times extremely difficult, but it has absolutely paid off for me. I am thrilled that I didn't give up on the technique when it seemed like my body was rejecting the movements because now it is a movement quality that feels natural and organic to my body. I have gained a ton of experience working with MCGD, and the most exciting one has yet to come. In a few short weeks I will get the chance to perform with MCGD in Switzerland, which is going to be an unforgettable experience for me. I am incredible thankful to have the opportunity!

I believe that every experience I go through has some kind of impact on the kind of dancer I am, and this has been an experience that has made me stronger, both physically and mentally. That is really all that I can ask for. It is an experience that I will carry with me wherever I end up in the future!

Andrea Lanzetti, September 2013