The Red and Black

Issue date: 11/6/09 Section: Variety

Ahoy there Matey. Canopy Studio presents an aerial show fit for trapeze, sword fighting and pirate lovers.

Pirates of the Airrrr! consists of 13 company members, all of which either currently attend the University or are alumni.

Audience members can look forward to an enormous custom-made pirate ship, a plank, high-in-the-air dance moves, an epic sword fight and a lot of pirate gear.

"This, for us, is a chance for our company to act a little sillier and play a little bit," said Melissa Roberts, director of Canopy. "It was a chance to let members let their imaginations run wild."

Roberts, along with author and trapeze artist Mary Jessica Hammes, will co-direct the show. Hammes wrote the script and created the storyline for the show.

Hammes is no stranger to the studio. She began taking classes in 2000 and was a founding member of the Canopy repertory company. Friends at Canopy know that she has always had an interest in pirates, so Hammes was enthusiastic and optimistic about writing the script.

The performers and Hammes got together months ago and discussed sea creatures, pirate characters and what kind of equipment would be best for the show. Hammes then created a story that made sense and the company members began producing dance moves that reflected the narrative.

"Audiences can expect a very fun and lively show," Hammes said. "Overwhelmingly, audiences will remember the sheer strength of these performers. They're highly skilled."

Canopy Studio, also known as the Flying Dance Trapeze Movement Arts & Performance Center, is a non-profit organization that is the only spot in Athens that offers aerial dance. Dancers in the show have trained with former members of Cirque du Soleil and performed in countries all over the world.

All proceeds will benefit Canopy Studio, and a portion of them will go into a new scholarship program for children here in Athens.

"One of the goals for the studio is making it more kid-friendly," Roberts said. "This is an effort to reach out to Athens' children who really want to play."

Pirates of the Airrrr! is expected to last an hour, and audience members are encouraged to wear pirate gear. Hosted by the Athens-Clarke County Library, the evening will begin with a pirate hat-making craft outside before the show starts.

The studio also offers trapeze dance lessons for all ages and skill levels. Canopy will host beginner trapeze and hoopdance workshops in both November and December.

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