Moorpark College’s very own Dance Faculty, Beth Megill, artistically directed and choreographed her company, Megill & Company’s (MeCo), second socially distanced performance.
On Saturday March 20 and Sunday March 21, MeCo presented ‘Meet me in the Field’.
The performance was held outdoors at American Jewish University’s Brandeis-Bardin Campus, near Simi Valley in the city of Brandeis. The audience was limited to no more than 25 people, as the casual outdoor setting allowed for social distancing.
Megill explained, “This show performance was created over the past 5 months and continues our journey through stay at home orders, closed dance spaces and some of the worst number of COVID-19 infections of the year. As a director, I could not be more grateful for the dancers’ willingness to meet under these strange times following strict protocols to keep each other safe.”
Despite all the setbacks from COVID-19 and facing the weather conditions while dancing outside on the concrete, MeCo practiced weekly to prepare for their performance. The members’ love for practicing their art was stronger than any of the other outside forces.
Megill co-directs the company with her sister, Heather Reba. Reba executive directed the dance performance.
“Megill & Company is committed to including dancers of all ages, shapes, sizes, genders and ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The most important qualities MeCo dancers must exude are the joy of dance, musicality and a professional work ethic. MeCo strives to create an environment of inclusivity among our performers and audiences alike. Dance is for all,” Reba expressed.
Megill aided the company’s intentions and claimed, “I love dancing. I love making dances. It is my way of coping and since I am so fortunate to have access to this space, it made sense to share some live dance with a small audience of between 15-25 people per performance.”
As Megill cherishes the art of dance, she appreciates and supports all artists. MeCo hosted a Music for Dance Competition last summer and the ‘Meet me in the Field’ performance included music from two of the prize winners.
The first place winner and professional jazz pianist, Danny Green’s composition “Time Lapse to Fall”, was danced to in the performance. Green is known for his compelling compositions. According to Green’s EPK, “Green takes listeners on a journey that is equal parts introspective and exuberant, and always compelling.”
Megill’s dances exuded the same exuberant energy as Green’s music as she pulled inspiration for her choreography. Each of Megill’s pieces told a different story that enabled the audience to take a journey.
Four out of the five dances were choreographed by Megill. Megill performed alongside her company members and even presented a solo performance. Each piece was created to emanate a unique style. The combining of modern, jazz and tap dancing in each piece created a quirky, feel good show.
For more information and updates on other MeCo events, visit the Megill & Company website or Instagram page @megillandco.
