
Breaking Rank 2024 Art Prize
This artistic presentation delves into the challenges faced by women across diverse cultures, with a powerful emphasis on the pervasive issue of harassment and domestic violence. "Breaking Rank" is an exploration that dares to shatter boundaries of internalized shame, and embarrassment, and ignite tough conversations about the experiences of women worldwide, across all cultures. We strive to illuminate the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of women who have endured difficulties simply by being by female, from impossibly unattainable standards, to the darkness of domestic violence.
Premiere Date: Fall 2024
The dancers
Addy Witt
Alucard McHaney
Anna Carlgren
Brittany Miller
Caitlin Reyes
Carrianne Cusack
Christianna Ransom
Claire Dobra
Ellen Van Meter
Erin Craig
Jenn Smith
Jenna Chase
Jennifer Castro
Katerina Guerrero
Katie Piesz
Kelsey Bowen
Kerri Allen
Sarah Nichols
Tiffany Shinouskis
Our choreography, infused with creative innovation and heart-wrenching emotion, aims to reveal the untold stories and unheard struggles of these women.
By embracing and bringing awareness to these narratives, we seek to create a safe space where more voices can be heard, hidden pain can be acknowledged, evil can be brought to light, and resilience of women can be celebrated. We want to also acknowledge the ongoing oppression and identity struggle of all human beings. Though this specific performances storyline follows a female focused perspective, we would be conscience-stricken if we did not acknowledge the truth that there are also many men that have faced these challenges and have had to rise from darkness in their lives.
This groundbreaking performance will challenge societal norms that perpetuate silence and it will hopefully empower those enduring to rise above their circumstances. It serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit, the transformative power of art and the importance of spreading God’s love. "Breaking Rank" beckons audiences to stand in solidarity with women who have experienced these things. (All of Us) Together, let us MOVE towards a society that upholds the rights and dignity of every woman and person equally, where compassion, respect and are the guiding principles.
“Breaking rank”: Full Performance - In a military formation, soldiers stand in a line or formation called ranks. "Breaking ranks" refers to an individual soldier or a group of soldiers deviating from the prescribed formation by stepping out of line or breaking the orderly arrangement.
The Ranks
Inactive Status
Members of the Reserves who are unable to train, receive pay and cannot be considered for promotion.
Ink Stick
Marine Corps term for a pen. (Pen and pencils are terminology often used in the military to describe women’s legs).
Rank & File
The ordinary members of an organization as opposed to its leaders.
Shot Him Down
Allison Rice Solo
Fugazi
A term originating out of the Vietnam War. Being completely out of whack, messed up, screwy.
Hit The Silk
Airforce slang for being forced to eject and utilize a parachute.
Crash Landing
Unplanned aircraft fall from flight.
Joe Vs Jane
Army term for a soldier and a female civilian.
Take a Breather
Bethany Love Solo
At Attention
Standing guard, in place, still and focused
Iron Rations
Emergency supplies (usually food) shared amongst military personnel when in action.
Bang Bang Fang
Army slang shooting out rebuke, being called out or otherwise disparaged.