R. Sumi Matsumoto

Artistic Statement

As a dancer, my intellect informs my artistry. I respect legacy while embracing innovation. I believe one must understand the past in order to make meaningful progress toward the future. There is always new life and context to bring into old work. My specialty is in mid-century modern dance techniques, particularly those in the Humphrey/Limon lineage.

My love of creative writing, music in triple meter, and unanswerable questions inspire my choreography. A strong sense of aesthetic value and minimalism drives my work. I often incorporate spoken text into my choreography as a way to weave parallel narratives through the work.