Sculling the Rising Seas

Prepare to be captivated by ODU Dance's performance of Sculling the Rising Seas at the Third Annual Public Arts Festival - FANTASTIC PLANET!

Sculling the Rising Seas, created by Natalia Schradle and Megan Thompson, seamlessly blends art, dance, and environmental awareness in a compelling outdoor performance. Amidst internationally-renowned Australian artist Amanda Parer's immersive "Fantastic Planet" artworks, it becomes a poignant metaphor for Norfolk's battle with rising sea levels.

Draped in flowing blue fabric reminiscent of mermaid tails, the dancers perform a ballet of balance and adaptation on Bosu balls. They sway in harmony, mirroring the ebb and flow of the ocean, symbolizing the city's resilience in confronting rising seas. Sculling, a basic swimming technique, is not just about survival but also deeper water sensitivity, a means to adapt and coexist. This theme permeates the performance, portraying human adaptability in the face of environmental change.

Performed by ODU Dance students and alumni, Sculling the Rising Seas urges contemplation of the delicate balance between human actions and the natural world.

Sculling the Rising Seas is a one-time performance on October 14th at 8 PM during the festival. The 3-day festival runs from October 13-15 from 6-10 PM at the Barry Art Museum. Enjoy the larger-than-life sculptures at the festival featuring performances, food, drink, live music and DJs, hands-on activities, large-scale art installations, and more -- free and open to the public.