The WE The People residency is led by Laguna Dance Founder, Executive, & Creative Director, Jodie Gates, and features a commissioned work by internationally recognized artists choreographer and educator Peter Chu, as well as a collaborative evening with separately commissioned Flamenco artist Irene Rodríguez. Over the three-week residency, each choreographer will create an original work developed specifically for this intergenerational ensemble and performance experience.
Gates will premiere a 45-minute multidisciplinary contemporary ballet work that integrates her emotionally driven choreographic voice with elements of film, expanding the theatrical and cinematic dimensions of the evening. Chu’s newly commissioned work will draw from his ongoing research in Tai Chi and Qi Gong, merging internal energetic practices with his dynamic contemporary movement vocabulary. In addition, Rodríguez will collaborate with Gates on a reimagined rendition of Carmen, broadening the program’s cultural and stylistic range through the integration of Flamenco traditions.
This intergenerational experience brings together 12 paid professional dancers, and emerging professional dancers (apprentices) to create and perform in "WE The People" and "Carmen!" World renowned Cuban Flamenco artist Irene Rodríguez will co-create and dance in a contemporary Flamenco version of the iconic show “Carmen”, bringing 4 professional dancers/musicians for performances catered to tourists on August 7-8 at the Playhouse. On August 8, choreographic genius Peter Chu creates a new work in residency in Laguna Beach, and Jodie Gates will create her work “WE The People” performance at the Playhouse August 9.
July 20 – August 9, 2026
Laguna Dance seeks six (6) hyper-versatile dance artists with professional experience and a highly collaborative spirit. Dancers selected will collaborate directly with Jodie Gates in the creation of WE The People, culminating in a public performance at the Laguna Playhouse.
July 20 – August 9, 2026
Three weeks of creative process and performance with Peter Chu and Jodie Gates, designed for emerging dancers ready to step into the professional world. Accepting ten (10) highly collaborative & versatile dancers ages 18+. Build your portfolio and work alongside current industry professionals in a unique choreographic process.
July 27 – August 9, 2026
Train and perform alongside industry leaders in an immersive professional environment, and develop artistry, technique, and stage experience culminating in a final performance at the Laguna Playhouse. Designed for thirty (30) ambitious pre-professional students seeking an opportunity to learn and grow alongside leaders and professionals in the dance world. Learn choreography and receive mentorship from industry leaders Jodie Gates & Peter Chu. This program gives exposure to a professional working experience in a dance company environment.