Joshua Mora

Artist Statement

In my choreographic endeavors, I draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of Filipino Folk Dance and the communal essence instilled by my mother. My research delves into liberating cultural dance from predefined boundaries, particularly exploring the embodiment of the psoas muscle and its resonance in movements from BIPOC and queer communities. I question the impact of colonialism on diasporic forms, experimenting with dance vocabulary in both representation and pedagogy. Intrigued by the sensate nature of the psoas, I explore its anatomical access, linking it to diverse cultural movements such as waacking, Filipino Folk, and pole dancing. My recent works, including the multi-media dance "Sa Huli, Tayo’y Iisa," reflect a commitment to interconnectedness, embracing diverse movement vocabularies and fostering harmony across cultures. I align with the aesthetics of solarpunk, seeking sustainable and shared power sources, disrupting traditional hierarchies, and embodying hope and dedication. Amidst concerns of cultural appropriation, my research aims to break down barriers, fostering a culture of shared embodied knowledge in dance. I envision this work transcending personal exploration to reshape dance's study within higher education, propelling us into a world built on harmony and hope. As we navigate these transformative times, I aspire to contribute to the evolution of dance, empowering individuals and communities to enact positive change through the art's inherent superpowers of sensing and envisioning. My choreographic research is centered on storytelling techniques that aim to evoke a visceral reaction in the audience. I explore the activation of the psoas and the vagal nerve as crucial elements in enhancing performers' connection to the narrative. This approach is rooted in my fascination with human expression, particularly within BIPOC and queer communities, and an ongoing exploration of freeing cultural dance movements from restrictive ethnic/cultural boundaries. My recent works, such as 'Sa Huli, Tayo’y Iisa,' reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary exploration, incorporating multimedia and drawing inspiration from diverse movement vocabularies.