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 mourning traditions from past and present, three archetypal female outcasts confront their aging bodies while unraveling an timeless tale that's eerily now. Narrative bends and breaks in cyclical dreams, as a stellar multi-generational cast—performers and ethereal 'younger ghosts'—dives deep into communal loss, fierce wildness, and the heartbreaking, hilarious, sacred rituals of caring for bodies and bidding farewell.
- Expect bold nudity, adult language, and nonstop unruly movement blending tenderness, lust, and chaos.
- Choreographed by LA-born, NY-honed Vanessa Anspaugh, a Bessie-nominated powerhouse who's lit up stages at New York Live Arts, Joyce Theater, and beyond.
- From howling howls to cannibalistic snacks and rope-whipping nets, it's a whirlwind of birth, pain, love, and imagined futures that grips you till the final, tear-streaked tableau.
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