Dance critic Melody Datz has a nice introduction to Boise-based choreographer Trey McIntyre in this week's paper. He's performing this weekend at UW Meany Hall:

Trey McIntyre is an intense dude, known for his first-class pedigree, notoriously fiery performances, and eyebrow-raising decision to leave the big cities behind and forge a successful company and career in his current home of Boise, Idaho. In Boise, his company has achieved a kind of celebrity status—Trey McIntyre Project dancers are recognized on the sidewalk, and the company receives money from local government and businesses. This enviable, mutual passion between an artist and his community reflects (and maybe inspires) an earthy quality in TMP's work—ballet roots easily meld with modern, and sometimes wild, movements. This weekend, Seattle gets in on a little of the action.

Everything in McIntyre's work, from his choreography to his methods of delivery (including short surprise performances in public places) are deeply connected to his cultural and environmental context. One of the pieces TMP will perform this week, Arrantza (the Basque word for "fishing"), is partially inspired by Boise's large Basque American population.

Trey's people responded to Melody: "First, thank you for the article onTrey McIntyre Project. We will be using the quote 'Trey McIntyre is an intense dude...' (attributed, of course) for years to come." They also sent along this sweet little bit of dance-comedy starring McIntyre:

Reggie Watts and Amy O'Neal did a similar thing several years ago as a video intro to her show Mockumentary at On the Boards.