Asheville Prepares for the Enchanting Premiere of Shiver in the Pines
This weekend, the vibrant city of Asheville is buzzing with excitement as the Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre gears up for its latest production, Shiver in the Pines, set to grace the stage at the Diana Wortham Theatre. This musical dance extravaganza promises to be a match made in artistic heaven, perfectly blending dance, music, and storytelling.
A Journey Back in Time
The inception of Shiver in the Pines is deeply rooted in the personal journey of local singer-songwriter and guitarist Tyler Ramsey. This project took flight a few years ago when Ramsey began bringing his daughter to the New Studio of Dance, the official school of ACDT. However, its origins trace back even further to Ramsey’s travels to France in 1996, where he collaborated with ACDT co-founders Susan and Giles Collard. “They were a big part of my life,” Ramsey recalls fondly, before years passed with paths diverging. But as Susan put it, “All of a sudden, Tyler became famous.”
Musical Growth and Creative Collaboration
After rising to fame with the indie rock band Band of Horses and a slew of successful solo records, Ramsey rekindled his relationship with the Collards. Inspired by the magic they once shared, Ramsey had a moment of revelation one night, pondering a new collaboration with his old friends. Coincidentally, the next day, Giles approached Ramsey with the very same idea, leading to a partnership that blossomed into what we see today.
Transforming Literature into Dance
The trio started working together in May 2023, with Susan at the helm as the director, Giles crafting the visual elements, and Ramsey composing original music. Their inspiration came from Manly Wade Wellman’s 1963 short story collection, Who Fears the Devil?. That enchanting anthology features a character named Silver John, who traverses the mystical lands of Madison County, combating supernatural foes using the power of music.
“It’s a wild, tall fantasy,” Ramsey explains, highlighting the essence of the stories. The Collards, touched by the themes in Wellman’s literary world, sought to adapt these elements through dance. Giles even shared, “You walk in the forest and hear things, and you think somebody’s following you and you turn around — and there’s nothing.” Such vivid imagery sets the stage for a truly immersive experience.
Artistry in Motion
Throughout the creation process, all dancers received copies of the five stories chosen for the performance. Rather than relying on a narrator, Susan found imaginative ways to present the text visually, allowing for improvisational dialogue among dancers and musicians, crafting a unique framework for each performance. “I wanted to have that feeling in this scene of happiness against fear,” she described when discussing the show’s emotional palette.
Ramsey’s role in Shiver in the Pines is particularly fascinating, as he not only plays instrumental music but also embodies the character of Silver John on stage. The Collards envisioned him in this pivotal role, challenging him to step out of his comfort zone. “I’m not dancing or anything,” he notes, “but I am visibly seen, so that’s been a new thing for me as well.” His willingness to embrace this challenge has infused the production with a dynamic energy.
Celebrating 45 Years of ACDT
As Shiver in the Pines debuts, it also marks a significant milestone for the Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre, celebrating its 45th anniversary. The Collards continue to thrive artistically, drawing inspiration from their travels to Cuba and Mexico, where they seek out innovative and exciting art forms. Susan believes that the collaboration between cultures enriches the artistic landscape of Asheville.
An Invitation to Experience the Magic
As the moments draw closer to the premiere, both local and visiting audiences are invited to experience this enchanting collaboration that blends music, dance, and storytelling in an unseen way. Ramsey expresses his hopes for the diverse crowd, wishing to share the spotlight with the dancers and the incredible talent that ACDT has cultivated over the years.
If you’re curious about how these stories come alive through movement and music, don’t miss the opportunity to witness Shiver in the Pines, debuting Friday and Saturday, October 18 and 19, at 7:30 p.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. Tickets range from $20 to $50, offering a chance to join a community celebration of creativity and passion.
This production promises to be an unforgettable experience, melding the realms of music and dance in a way that feels both nostalgic and innovative. Get ready, Asheville—Shiver in the Pines is about to awaken your senses.
