"Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters" is a documentary film that explores and re-interprets the profound 1989 ballet "D-Man in the Waters," created by the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company during the devastating AIDS epidemic. The film delves into the original ballet's emotional depth, which vividly illustrated the fear, anger, grief, and hope for salvation felt by the company members as they grappled with the crisis.
Understanding "Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters"
This acclaimed film offers a powerful look at the legacy of a significant dance work and its enduring relevance. It's not just a historical account but also a dynamic re-engagement with the art, often showing new generations of dancers learning and performing the piece, thereby bringing its powerful message into contemporary light.
The Original Ballet: "D-Man in the Waters"
Created by Bill T. Jones in 1989, "D-Man in the Waters" is considered a masterwork of modern dance. It emerged from a period of intense personal and collective loss for the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company, as many of its members, including Jones's partner Arnie Zane, succumbed to AIDS. The ballet serves as a poignant and raw artistic response to the AIDS crisis, using vigorous, interconnected movement to convey a spectrum of human emotions.
Key emotional and thematic elements expressed in the ballet include:
- Fear: The uncertainty and terror surrounding the epidemic.
- Anger: Frustration and rage at the injustice and helplessness.
- Grief: Profound sorrow and mourning for lost loved ones.
- Hope for Salvation: A yearning for release, healing, and perseverance amidst despair.
The choreography is characterized by its physical demands, communal support, and moments of both frantic energy and tender intimacy, reflecting the arduous journey of survival and mutual reliance.
The Film's Re-interpretation
"Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters" goes beyond merely presenting the original ballet. It acts as a modern re-interpretation, exploring how the piece continues to resonate with performers and audiences decades later. The film often features current dancers from the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company learning and embodying the choreography, sharing their contemporary perspectives on the work's historical context and its universal themes of struggle, resilience, and community. This approach allows the film to bridge the past and the present, demonstrating the timeless power of art to address profound human experiences.
Core Themes and Significance
The film and the ballet it centers on are deeply intertwined with themes of survival, memory, and the power of collective action in the face of adversity. The work serves as a testament to the lives lost and a celebration of the enduring human spirit.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | 1989 ballet by Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company |
| Context | Height of the AIDS epidemic, profound personal and collective loss |
| Emotions | Fear, anger, grief, hope for salvation, resilience, community support |
| Film Focus | Modern re-interpretation, exploring the ballet's legacy and continued relevance |
Impact and Legacy
The impact of "D-Man in the Waters" extends beyond the world of dance. It is recognized as a vital piece of artistic and social history, illuminating the human cost and emotional toll of the AIDS epidemic. The film ensures that this powerful narrative remains accessible and relevant, prompting discussions about illness, loss, and the role of art in times of crisis. It highlights the importance of empathy, remembrance, and the strength found in solidarity.
Bill T. Jones' Vision
Bill T. Jones, a celebrated choreographer, dancer, and director, is a pivotal figure in contemporary dance. His work is known for its intellectual rigor, emotional honesty, and willingness to confront complex social and personal issues. "D-Man in the Waters" stands as one of his most iconic creations, embodying his unique ability to transform personal tragedy into universal art that challenges, moves, and inspires.
