The Quarry Project

 The Quarry Project is a site-specific dance/theatre piece being created for the Wells Lamson quarry, one of the oldest, deepest granite quarries in the country, now flooded and in “reserve.” Previously owned by Rock of Ages and now owned by Polycor, a Quebec corporation, the quarry is in the small village of Websterville, Vermont. Many residents had relatives who worked in the Wells Lamson, and many still work in the nearby active quarry.

When I moved out of Burlington where I had lived and worked for 35 years, I would drive by the Wells Lamson on my way to my new home. The place was magnetic and I knew I wanted to spend more time there to determine if I could possibly make work in that setting.

In the spring of 2016, with a clear slate, I began the process of securing permission to work in this extremely compelling and challenging site. During the ensuing months, while I negotiated with the corporation, I visited the site many times, alone and with several of my artistic partners. I had discussions with a flotation expert, an engineer, Barre Town officials, and long-time supporters. 

In the areas unfamiliar to me but crucial to the permission and ultimate success of the piece, I enlisted a pro bono team of experts in the fields of law, insurance, and corporations to guide me through the tangle of rules and regulations.

In late summer, I made a film with my past civic partners to introduce my work to the quarry owners.

2017 →