Ep 2. East Coast / West Coast Drama

Laurieann Gibson: Beyond the Spotlight season 1 episode 2, titled "East Coast / West Coast Drama," delves into the intense rivalry between the two coasts of the United States and how it affects the world of dance. As a renowned choreographer and creative director, Gibson has had the opportunity to work with dancers from different parts of the country, and she knows firsthand the impact that these regional differences can have on the industry.

The episode starts with Gibson in Los Angeles, where she is working with a group of dancers on a new project. She reflects on her experience of moving from New York to LA, and how she had to adjust to the different style and mentality of the West Coast dancers. She also talks about the industry's tendency to pit the East Coast against the West Coast, which has led to a lot of drama and tension in the past. Despite this, Gibson believes that there is value in embracing the differences between the two coasts and learning from each other's strengths.

Gibson then meets up with a group of New York dancers who have come to LA to participate in a dance battle against a group from the West Coast. The dancers are all talented and passionate, but they also carry with them a sense of pride and competitiveness that reflects the larger East Coast / West Coast rivalry. Gibson tries to mediate and encourage them to focus on their artistry rather than their egos, but tensions continue to build as the battle approaches.

The dance battle itself is a high-energy event, with both sides bringing their best moves and showing off their unique styles. Gibson watches from the sidelines, cheering on both sides and appreciating the skill and dedication of all the dancers. In the end, there is no clear winner, but the experience brings the dancers closer together and helps them appreciate the value of mixing different styles and perspectives.

After the battle, Gibson sits down with a group of accomplished choreographers and dancers, including Matt Steffanina and Chachi Gonzales, to discuss the East Coast / West Coast rivalry and how it has affected their careers. They share stories of intense competition and territorialism, but also acknowledge the ways in which the rivalry has pushed them to grow and innovate. Gibson emphasizes the importance of breaking down these barriers and creating a more collaborative and inclusive dance community.

The episode ends with Gibson reflecting on the lessons she has learned about the East Coast / West Coast divide and how it relates to the larger issues facing the dance industry. She remains committed to fostering a more supportive and inclusive environment for all dancers, regardless of their regional background or style. As she says, "it's not about East Coast or West Coast, it's about dance."