‘Doggie Hamlet’ links sheep farming with dance theater
A scene from “Doggie Hamlet,” a performance art piece by Ann Carlson.
Arts

‘Doggie Hamlet’ links sheep farming with dance theater

WESTMINSTER WEST — Interdisciplinary and award-winning choreographer Ann Carlson will be in residence at Vermont Performance Lab for two weeks this month to develop “Doggie Hamlet.”

According to a news release, Carlson's performance pieces borrow from the disciplines of dance, performance, theater, visual, and conceptual art, and often dismantle conventional boundaries between artist and subject.

“Doggie Hamlet” is no different: Its cast features dancers, musicians, herding dogs, and a flock of sheep.

Carlson is the recipient of more than 30 commissions and numerous awards for her artistic work. She has collaborated with a number of animals, including horses, dogs, cats, cows, fish, and goats, who have all performed live with her.

To bring Ann Carlson and her team to Vermont, VPL is collaborating with Yesenia and David Major of Vermont Shepherd Farm to present two preview performances of Doggie Hamlet at the Major's 250-acre farm in Westminster West on Friday, Sept. 16, and Saturday, Sept. 17, at 5 p.m.

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