Allison Orr's Austin

By Spike Gillespie

February 03, 2010 at 2:00 PM

Award-winning Austin choreographer Allison Orr, founder of Forklift Danceworks, recently wowed the city with Trash! — a performance starring 25 City of Austin sanitation workers. The show also included 16 trucks, ranging from those used for recycling to regular trash pick up to street sweeping. A massive crowd turned out in the pouring rain to take in the spectacle, which moved many (myself included) to tears, and gave us all a better appreciation for so much hard work done on our behalf that typically goes unnoticed.

This wasn't the first time Orr worked with everyday people, incorporating moves not usually considered "dance" into gorgeously choreographed events. In the past, she has also worked with firefighters, roller skaters, Elvis impersonators, and even Venetian gondoliers. Orr trained with internationally acclaimed choreographer Liz Lerman, a MacArthur Foundation (Genius) Grant recipient, who also works with non-traditional dancers to show the beauty in everyday movement.

Next up for Orr is Project Forklift, which will feature pieces by Orr and five other Austin choreographers. I recently had an opportunity to ask Orr about her Austin favorites.

Describe Your Perfect Day in Austin

Start with Yoga with Angela D, then a pancake brunch with my 3 year-old daughter, followed by a leisurely walk around Lady Bird Lake, a long nap, and cocktails and dinner at The Good Knight (get directions) with my lovely husband.

What's Your Favorite Dish in Austin?

Hard to choose! Enchiladas Zacatecanas at El Sol y La Luna (get directions). Portabello Mushroom Tacos from Izzo's Tacos (get directions).

What's Your Best Kept Austin Secret?

The great contemporary and experimental dance/music/theater scene. I love being an artist in Austin. We have a great community, and I don't think that will be a secret much longer!