No One Leaves the Stage: An Analysis of How Queer Dance Strengthens Individual Identities and Communal Bonds

The senior choreographic project Isolated Together focuses on the way in which creating a safe space to share individuals’ authentic selves allows for the growth and development of the entire community. Within the live performance of this work, all individuals are essential to the unified whole; therefore, once visible to the audience, no dancer leaves the stage. Along with the choreographic intentions, the choreographer develops a unique understanding of queer dance based on Clare Croft’s ideas to frame a proposal for how dance practices can be inclusive of all individuals. This paper explores how the project allowed the choreographer to expand her practice of queer dance by relying on reflection, collaboration, and intuition to ensure that each dancer is seen, heard, and valued throughout the process. Keywords: authenticity, community, choreography, collaboration, inclusivity, individuality, safe space, queer danc