Tandy Beal creates “dance that is exciting, mysterious, theatrical, humorous and energetic” (Seattle Post Intelligencer). “Her stage is a wondrous wayside where mystery unfolds.” (Los Angeles Times). She is “a choreographer of taste and intelligence…with a sure sense of theater.” (New York Times) “Astonishing virtuosity…theatrical savvy…her solos are like jewels, all of which shine…” (Libération, Paris)
Tandy began her career at age 16 touring world-wide with Alwin ... view more »
What do you do now? Has your art evolved or changed?
It was an honor and a privilege to receive this award from you. When one is chosen for an award, the deep and unquantifiable gift is feeling like your work in fact does mean something to other people - and especially significant when it is at home where most of one's work is done!
What is one piece of advice you would give to an emerging artist?
I am still making all kinds of art... "HereAfterHere: a self-guided tour of eternity" is my latest full scale, multi-arts production, which was just at the Louis B. Meyer Theatre in Santa Clara. Also these events: In Your Shoes... Empathy Art Actions - In the streets, schools and businesses. ArtSmart, producing excellent artists for kids in schools, teachers and public shows for families. Crack the Nut! our wild show with singers, circus and dance... Mangia del Arte, our art fundraiser for non-profits with circus, dance and song. Still touring with Bobby McFerrin. 40 Odd Moves: Solos and other Entertainments. Celebrating in 2014-15, 40 Odd Years of having a performing company!
Briefly, how would you describe the state of the arts locally, as well as national and beyond?
At this age--it is not one piece! #1 Keep people around you who have light hearts. #2 Go out and look at the stars and remember what a miraculous event we are all in, even if you didn't get the grant! #3 Figure out a way to earn that does not suck your life away because being a starving artist is really not productive, and neither is a job that has you working 24/7 with no payback but $. And yes, #4, cultivate many loves - your cat, your friends, books, gardening, languages - you will need solace at times, and having refined and different loves is a great help! #5 And don't gossip. Everyone is doing her or his best, even when you can't see or fathom it!
Difficult and wonderful, as it always is!
