Video: Slowdanger Performance Ahead
It’s dance theatre. It’s music. It’s an expression of magic. And it’s happening right here in Pittsburgh. Meet the duo that comprises a collaborative performance entity known as ‘slowdanger’
by Aadam Soorma
May 6, 2019
Springtime in Pittsburgh. A season of bloom and rebirth.
Okay, let’s be real – spring is also the season of potholes among our twisty, hilly roads. Talk to any vehicle commuter and they can attest – “slow danger” signs are everywhere.
Meet the collaborative performance entity whose name is inspired by these warning signs.
Enter the minds of Anna Thompson and Taylor Knight. Together, they comprise a dance theater duo known as slowdanger.
Per the duo, slowdanger is literally a conceptual framework for how the group produces its work. They feel inspired by building upon demolished or deconstructed space and perform regularly at bars and clubs in the area. They also hold workshops and therapeutic classes where attendees are encouraged to express themselves freely and authentically.
We sent videographer Nick Childers to get to know slowdanger and help us share their story and the way the duo interacts with various communities here in Pittsburgh.
slowdanger: empathy machine
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxIKn4HhxxR/
In the documentary, you will see footage from slowdanger’s multidisciplinary performance: empathy machine.
empathy machine is an imagined future, a beginning, an ending, an answer, and a warning. This work aims to desexualize intimacy and examine empathy as a continual process of sensitizing ourselves to our own bodies, companions, and environment. The work explores intimacy and empathy, questioning societal reflexes surrounding these terms through the use of physicality, responsive technology and awareness facilitations.
Performers: Ru Emmons, Roberta Guido, Simon Phillips, Taylor Knight and Anna Thompson.
empathy machine was made possible with support from The Opportunity Fund and Pittsburgh Foundation’s A W Mellon Grant.
Learn more about slowdanger
To learn more about slowdanger workshops and performances, visit the upcoming section of their website.
- Website: slowdangerslowdanger.com
- Instagram: @_slowdanger_ or @slowdanger_

More Local Stories
Eat Play Stay Orlando: Sanford
On this episode of Eat Play Stay Orlando explore what’s new in the Northern part of town. Sanford has a plethora of breweries, bars, and delicious dining options to choose from.
Hometown Tragedy: The Pike County Massacre
On this episode of Hometown Tragedy: Missing in Milwaukee, we’ll explore what happened to Jerica Banks, her children, and how it impacted their community.
Six New Orleans parks that are perfect locations to celebrate 4th of July
Head to one of these six New Orleans parks to celebrate Independence Day in the city.
Cheap Date Orlando: Punk Rock & Pooches
Two Orlando couples shop vintage, search for the perfect slice, visit a post-apocalyptic saloon, and take the stage on blind dates in Orlando.
Fit and Fab: Free summer workouts in Boston
Cover photo courtesy Getty Images Looking to get fit for the summer? Still wary of COVID-19 or just looking for some sunshine while you sweat? Here are some Boston free summer workouts across the city so you can keep moving all season long! Seaport Sweat May 2 to Sept. 29 Boston’s biggest free workout series…
What’s On the Menu?: Farm-to-table
The farm-to-table movement brings locally grown foods to your plate. Not only will enjoying farm-to-table meals allow you to indulge in fresh, nutritional, seasonal dishes, but farm-to-table dining helps the environment and supports the local economy. Check out these delicious farm-to-table restaurants in Greenville, South Carolina on the latest episode of What’s On the Menu?. …
A guide to some of the best Black-owned brunch spots in NOLA
Gather the crew together, make those reservations, and celebrate all things Black at brunch.
A guide to Pittsburgh’s summer events must-do list
Check out our roundup below for the can’t-miss events happening in the city over the next few months.
Eat Play Stay Orlando: Tarpon Springs
In this episode of Eat Play Stay Orlando you’ll be transported to a thriving Greek community nestled on Florida’s gulf coast. From sponge diving to flaming cheese to a Greek bakery that supplies a ginormous amount of baklava to the entire country, you’re sure to fall in love with Greek culture in Tarpon Springs, Florida.
Dorchester doughnuts that pack a paczki
These traditional Polish pastries are the real deal.
Exploring the history of Pittsburgh’s Chinatown
At one time, there was even an informal Chinatown mayor to act as a community liaison.
Painting My Way Through Life: Pittsburgh (And Beyond) Through The Eyes of Artist Ron Donoughe
Ron Donoughe has spent over 30 years painting the Pennsylvania landscape, especially Pittsburgh. When you don’t find him capturing the spirit of his paintings on location, you’ll likely find him in his Lawrenceville studio – where he’s watched the neighborhood transform through his windows.
With a potential sale of his building looming in 2022, we chatted with Donoughe about his artistic journey thus far, what might come next, and Pittsburgh through his eyes.
Guide to Every Comic Book Store in Pittsburgh
Your complete guide to Pittsburgh comic book stores, including comics written and drawn by Pittsburgh creators.
A guide to the best local florists in Pittsburgh
Here’s where to get bright booms from local florist shops in the city.