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 and modern rituals of death and grieving into a cyclical tapestry of emotion.
Three archetypal female outcasts, confronting their aging bodies, unravel an timeless tale that's eerily present-day, blending narrative deconstruction with raw, reverie-like intensity. Joined by younger ghosts, this stellar cast—including Anna Azrieli, Rebecca Serrell-Cyr, and maura nguyễn donohue—dives deep into communal loss, reclaiming wildness amid the devastating, absurd, and sacred acts of caring for bodies and ritualizing endings.
Expect intertwined bodies in unruly motion, howls piercing the air, and tender intergenerational connections that cycle through antagonism, lust, and love. Collaborations with composer Soraya Odishoo and lighting designer Kathy Couch amplify the sensory spell, praised by the New York Times and Brooklyn Rail for its gripping power and hopeful tragedy.
- Inspired by early and contemporary grieving rites
- Explores multi-generational mourning and wild reclamation
- Features seasoned performers and ghostly younger echoes
- A wake-up call to the chaos of loss and renewal
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