Vanessa Anspaugh - mourning after mornings
Step into the hauntingly beautiful world of Vanessa Anspaugh's "mourning after mornings", a mesmerizing dance performance that weaves ancient grieving rituals with raw, contemporary emotion.
Inspired by death and loss, three fierce female outcasts confront their aging bodies while unraveling an timeless tale of communal mourning. Joined by younger "ghosts," the seasoned cast dives into cyclical reveries of devastation, absurdity, and sacred wildness—think roaring tables, glowing lights from unexpected places, playful cannibalism, and heart-wrenching howls that pierce the soul.
- Unruly movements blending tenderness, lust, and defiance across generations.
- Intertwined bodies grabbing, cradling, and laughing through birth, pain, and love.
- Ropes whipping into hopeful nets, kids on gondola-tables, and endless, excessive endings that leave you pondering absence.
This isn't just dance—it's a wild reclamation of how we ritualize endings and care for each other. Perfect for those craving bold, intergenerational theater that sticks with you long after the lights dim!
The Venue
Discover East Side Performing Arts (ESPA), Austin's vibrant new hub for dance and performance off Springdale Rd! This state-of-the-art center rocks 22-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for unleashing your inner artist.
Formerly First Street Studio, ESPA buzzes with weekly classes from pro-level ballet and hip-hop grooves to improvisational flows, partnering workshops, and all-levels Dance Church parties. Whether you're a beginner breaking moves or a seasoned dancer refining technique, there's fun for every body!
- Ballet for pros: Affordable, supportive sessions by Austin Contemporary Ballet.
- Hip-hop vibes: Bronx-style RnB energy for teens and adults.
- Improvisation & partnering: Playful, somatic explorations and dynamic workshops.
- Special events: Home of Connec(TX)ions Dance Festival and Professional Training Program.
Grab drop-ins, unlimited passes, or sliding scale options—ESPA's all about community, growth, and sweaty, joyous moves. Come reflect, connect, and dance your heart out!
Location
Open Hours
- mondayOpen 24 hours
- tuesdayOpen 24 hours
- wednesdayOpen 24 hours
- thursdayOpen 24 hours
- fridayOpen 24 hours
- saturdayOpen 24 hours
- sundayOpen 24 hours