In celebration of the Erie Canal’s 200th birthday, we’re hosting The Erie Canal Project: New Choreography by Cecilia Whalen. This original dance piece is inspired by the movement of the canal, and features stylized modern movements and influences from Irish step dance. The piece will be performed by eight dancers, including former Martha Graham Dance Company members, a world champion Irish step dancer, and special guest Chris Thomas, Haudenosaunee Smoke Dancer.

In its Schenectady iteration, The Erie Canal Project will feature an additional dancer, special guest Chris Thomas, Smoke Dancer of the Onondaga Haudenosaunee. The performance will take place in the beautiful and rustic Dutch Barn at the Mabee Farm.

This Schenectady County based performance is sponsored by New York Folklore with support from an Arts and Culture Development Grant from the Schenectady County Legislature.