(1992) Still Rush  (https://vimeo.com/91811679)
An impassioned work based on Withers’ pioneer ancestor’s migration from Missouri, Illinois, other locations, to territory in the Mountain West – a valley that became Salt Lake Valley.  History of Still Rush:  Maida was invited to create a new work for the Mino Nicholas Dance Company with rehearsals in NYC.  Maida commuted to NYC to audition and rehearse. The performance was scheduled to be premiered in the theater associated with the Maison de Francois, NYC, NY.  When the publicity went out for the work opening, several presenting organizations, who had trouble with Mr. Nicholas previously (financial issues, promises, etc), made it impossible for the New York City performance to continue.  Previous sponsors arranged to have the event at the Maison de Francois cancelled.
Fortunately, Maida was booked to present  a concert at Dance Place, in Washington, DC, so Still Rush premiere was presented at Dance Place along with two other dances by MWDCCo.  Music was by SHAMAN, a very interesting group located in Philadelphia.  After the DC performance the work was reconstructed on MWDCCo and performed as part of Dance for the Earth – Rolling Thunder / Transformation.

Premiere: Dance Place, Washington, DC

Still Rush:  “An intricately layered and driving work for seven dancers to a dramatic intense score by the percussion ensemble, Shaman.” (Flyer)
Choreography by Maida Withers for 7 dancers in NYC.  Original commission by Mino Nicholas.  Since the contract was not presented in New York City,  Maida Withers Dance Construction Company completed the work and premiered it at Dance Place in January, 20 Washington, DC instead of Maison de Francois in New York City.

Still Rush is part of Withers environment period/era.  The original work was titled Passage, but was changed for performance.  The concept makes extensive reference to Maida’s pioneer ancestors who were driven from their homes in Missouri and Illinois (across territory that what was called “the plains”) because of their religious beliefs and the high number of people involved (voting power). Faithful members (women, men, children) of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) traveled by handcart, wagon, and on foot across the plains during all seasons of the year – a demanding adventure and sacrifice. Many died, some were killed.  Ultimately they arrived at what became known as the Salt Lake Valley – at that time not part of the US Territory.  This is one of the great “migrations of man” for religious freedom. They sought a place of peace where they could establish a “kingdom” representing their values.   The ancestors were converts to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) in Scandinavia and England, New England, others, who came to the United States looking to find a safe haven for religious freedom and to build a new  and free civilization.  Hundreds made the trek (in all seasons) and settled in the “Salt Lake Valley” (based on the great body of salt water in the valley).  Eventually the homestead became known as the State of Utah.”

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