Ep 5. Enter the Faun

In season 5, episode 5 of America ReFramed, titled "Enter the Faun," viewers are taken on an emotionally charged journey alongside disabled dancer and choreographer, Gregg Mozgala, as he embarks on a unique collaboration with choreographer and theater director, Tamar Rogoff.

The episode opens with Mozgala sharing his story of living with cerebral palsy and how it has impacted his life and career. Despite the numerous challenges he has faced, Mozgala has found solace and creativity through dance. However, he finds himself grappling with the limitations of his body and seeking to push beyond them.

Enter Tamar Rogoff, who has a unique approach to movement and performance. She believes in challenging the physical boundaries of the human body and its potential for expression. Rogoff sees a spark in Mozgala and invites him to collaborate on a new piece of work.

The rest of the episode dives into the intense rehearsal and creation process, which takes place over several months. Viewers are witness to the deeply personal and often physically grueling work required to bring this vision to life. Mozgala is pushed to his limits, both mentally and physically, and must confront his own fears and reservations.

The inclusion of dance footage and personal interviews offer a rich look into the creative process and the raw emotions that drive it. From the frustration of failure to the elation of breakthroughs, viewers are given an intimate and raw look at the artistic process. The relationship between Mozgala and Rogoff strengthens as they navigate this challenging process, and the result is a stunning performance.

Overall, "Enter the Faun" is a moving and inspiring example of how art can be used to challenge and push beyond physical limitations. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and the incredible potential that lies within us all.