The National Choreographers Initiative returns to Irvine Barclay Theatre on July 26 for its 21st season. The program invites choreographers and professional dancers from across the country to create new ballets in just three weeks. We spoke with artistic director Molly Lynch about NCI: Discovery 2025.
What has contributed to NCI’s continued success?
I really didn’t have any idea if this would continue past a couple of years, but it was worth a try. I had support from the community members, Irvine Barclay Theatre and UCI’s dance program. We have ticket buyers and donors who have been supportive for the past 20 years.
Molly Lynch
What makes NCI’s creative process unique?
The choreographers are told this is a chance to do something of their choosing, and they don’t need to finish it. This takes some of the pressure off that they normally face.
What inspired your selection of this year’s choreographers?
I like to provide opportunities to emerging, mid-career and established choreographers. I often look for slightly diverse styles or backgrounds so we have a variety of things to show.
What can first-time audience members expect?
If you like dance or ballet, there will be something for you to enjoy. The choreographers introduce their piece and provide context for what the audience will see. At the end of the evening, we do a Q&A to get feedback and ask questions of the choreographers to better understand their process.
