Halocline is a quietly electrifying, 18-minute performance by River Valley Dance Project that welcomes both seasoned dance-goers and first-time attendees. Five performers move through six interlocking sections—solos, duets, and ensemble passages—where the stakes are simple and human: Can we trust? Can we be held? Can we move together? Performed in the round, the piece brings audiences close enough to sense the dancers’ timing and breath, turning watching into a shared act of attention. Halocline is intentionally crafted to foster deep listening and co-regulation; as weight shifts and hands meet, the room settles into a collective rhythm. The result is an experience that feels at once intimate and expansive—no insider vocabulary required.
You’re invited not to analyze, but to notice: the care in a catch, the humor in a near-miss, the relief of arriving together. Come as you are and let the work do what it does best—connect people.
Following the performance, join River Valley Dance Project for Conscious Connection, a transformative workshop led by director and choreographer Linalynn Schmelzer. Conscious Connection is a trust-centered movement workshop with River Valley Dance Project led by Linalynn Schmelzer, featuring full-body warm-up, solo/group exploration, partnered improvisation, and lifts; open to all levels.
Cost is $30 per person, with a sliding-scale option available for anyone who needs reduced-price tickets.
More information about River Valley Dance Project
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Suggested Donation $30
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Linalynn Schmelzer
Linalynn Schmelzer, BFA, MS, is the esteemed proprietor of the River Valley Dance Project School, where her passion for the art of dance and extensive expertise converge. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Linalynn has emerged as a distinguished performer, choreographer, and instructor, leaving an indelible mark on the dance landscape of New England.
Her journey in the realm of modern dance includes captivating collaborations with renowned companies such as O’Brian Dancers, Sorvino Dance Project, Judie Clark Dance Theater, and La Claire Dancers. In 2014, Linalynn embarked on a visionary endeavor by founding her own dance company, the River Valley Dance Project (RVDP). Under her visionary leadership, RVDP has delved into the realms of dance film creation, site-specific choreography, and dynamic collaborations with live musicians. The company has graced Connecticut's concert stages, earning acclaim for its innovative and evocative performances. A testament to her dedication, in 2021, Linalynn established the River Valley Dance Project School in Deep River, CT. This educational haven offers classes catering to diverse age groups and encompasses various dance styles, reflecting Linalynn’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive dance community. As she marks the milestone of 10 years with RVDP in 2024, Linalynn takes pride in the legacy she has built, embodying a harmonious blend of artistry, education, and community engagement. Her infectious enthusiasm resonates, promising continued growth and celebration within the dynamic world of dance. Movement for life is her motto, and she intends to do just that.