Artist Spotlight: Ezra Swift
“…to express pain, hurt, and joy in a raw, authentic way, helping me realize that there's beauty even in vulnerability and discomfort.”
Hi! And, welcome to our artist spotlights ! This is a place where we will introduce the RudduR Dance artists and shine a light on them!
Our most senior dancer, and poster boy, has been with us since we first started developing WITNESS! You might have seen him on our posters earlier this year, we like to introduce you to Ezra Swift!
Why We’re Excited?
Christopher Rudd: “I have loved watching him develop into the artist that he is. He keeps on getting better and I’m so very proud.”
Enjoy the conversation with Ezra.
Full Interview with Ezra
What inspired you to become a dancer?
I can’t name the inspiration behind the gift of dance. Truly! I have always felt the rhythm in my feet, the sway in my hips and non-verbal exploration of story telling. Perhaps it’s my true connect with my ancestors.
How does the mission of RudduR Dance, particularly its focus on addressing racial inequities, resonate with you personally as an artist.
The racial aspect that RudduR dance focus on resonates with me deeply as I am one of the experiences we depict. I believe we are activists and participating in bringing the work to life is a bit like therapy for me. I get to talk out the issues today and live them and throw them away when I leave the studio ( sometimes). It's important that others get the same opportunity to face their own traumas.
What drew you to the WITNESS project, and what do you hope audiences take away from your performance?
I have been an artist with RudduR Dance since the beginning of the WITNESS process. I have naturally gained full respect and enjoyment for the project. I hope people take away from witnessing WITNESS whatever their souls needs. It’s such a personal journey to dance and watch. I leave it up to the person(s) to find their own path as to what it means to them.
Can you share a memorable moment from your dance career?
The most memorable moment in dance is when I left the USA and arrived in Burkina Faso. That trip was the first time out of the country. The first time going somewhere and the entire audience looked like me body, expressions, hair, skin, smiles, energy, and magic. The first time I felt I was dancing for Us and not them.
Can you share a moment during rehearsals for WITNESS that was particularly impactful for you?
In rehearsals, I've found it incredibly impactful to explore the concept of 'ugliness' as a form of beauty. While we're often inclined to smile and showcase happiness, equating that with beauty, Christopher has a unique way of peeling back the layers. He allows us to express pain, hurt, and joy in a raw, authentic way, helping me realize that there's beauty even in vulnerability and discomfort.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
I am looking forward to preforming the WITNESS trilogy. It has been years since the beginning and being along the process has been great, I am excited to finally dance all three sections in sequence.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Free time is a funny concept because I don't really have much of it. However, in between tasks, I enjoy shopping—I'm slightly obsessed with shoes and clothes. I also have a quirky love for watching insect videos on YouTube, with arachnids being my favorite. Plus, as a new cat daddy to Lavender, I'm trying to spend as much time as possible with her.
As always, thank you for your interest in RudduR Dance! If you are interested in getting to know Ezra better, we invite you to explore his website bio. If you feel compelled, please consider supporting Ezra through our Adopt an Artist Program, which helps provide resources and opportunities for talented artists like him. Your support makes a significant difference in fostering creativity and supporting the arts community.
Again, thank you for joining us today! Keep an eye out for the next interview on our website, or subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of the page. Until next time!
If you can, please, donate to RudduR Dance and help us better the world through dance! Any amount helps!