On September 12, Open Arts instructor Pat Hall will be honored as the inaugural recipient of the Loretta Abbott Award by Clark Center NYC. The award is named for the late Loretta Abbott, a founding member of Clark Center NYC and a highly celebrated dance artist of stature. The annual award honors and recognizes an artist who has made major contributions in the field of dance.
Amy Pivar writes that "An internationally seasoned and recognized dancer and teacher, Pat Hall continually refines her artistry, which is influenced by African and Caribbean Dance, New York City’s 1980’s Midtown Dance scene and Downtown Postmodernism as well her international touring. In her classes she has always maintained multiple live percussionists, a tradition she is dedicated to carrying forth. She dances her heart out to the language of the drums, teaching others to appreciate this symbiosis, passing her innovative methods onto her students."
You can learn more about the Clark Center and this award event on their website.