The first iteration of Palimpsest was recently performed as a work-in-progress in Movement Research at The Judson Church; scribing, overwriting, and blending in this hallowed place was a gift. The word “palimpsest” stems from papyrus or parchment; the original text would be scraped off and then repurposed, in most cases the old writing remained faintly visible beneath new words. It can also be used to describe a historically layered place. We layer ourselves in life, just as the world layers itself in time. Dance exists within this framework. Building on this first iteration, the work will eventually unfold in layered “rooms” where audiences experience and shape the present alongside performers.
Above: first day of rehearsal with Caleb Paterson, Mariah Anton, and Andi Farley Shimota, we experimented with overwriting. Starting where we are.
Below: Dress rehearsal pictures preparing for Movement Research at Judson Church, January 12, 2026.
