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Reviewed by Nancy McCray

An early pioneer of post-modern dance, Anna Halprin uses her creative dance movements to connect with nature: earth, water, wind and fire. As observers of her dance, we vicariously experience the peace, joy, distress, liberation and questioning that she describes. The octogenarian's "costumes," a diaphanous body wrap, a nest of twigs crowning her head, and blue paint on her body, complete her transformation. Death is inevitable, and Halprin's reference to her bout with cancer helps her (and us) realize the aging process and the finality of life. Beautifully filmed and choreographed in some of nature's most scenic locales, this thought-provoking presentation, though not for everyone, demonstrates the importance of honoring the human body and the earth body. Dancers, cancer survivors, and nature lovers especially will respect the message.