Fear, reclaiming space, and mourning can be cyclical patterns of having to prove one’s humanity to a world that believes one is less than equal. In this dance film, Three Stages of Having to Prove Your Humanity, the stages of proving oneself are revealed, unveiling themselves like abstract chapters. Stage one is likened to being hunted¬ –defenseless and having to constantly prove your innocence. This stage is often riddled with signs and mechanisms to offer warning and caution like a safety vest of code-switching. Stage two, is a reclaiming of space and time, delving deep into the notion of “this is me, take it or leave it.” Here, home, safety, and expression are cultivated. Stage three is the stage of mourning that cannot be escaped if one has found themselves in this cycle to begin with.

Choreography: Azaria Rianne Hogans Dancers: Katie Griffiths, Emily Hughey, Josie Walker Lighting Design: Tabita Cercea Costume Design: Jennifer Lippert Music: Settle Down by Kimbra, 200 Pressure by James Blake, Eartha Kitt Interview on Love and Compromise (edited by Azaria Hogans) *I do not own the rights to this music Sightlines Dance Concert at Missouri State University Spring 2019 Photograph by Jesse Scheve

MFA Culminating Project of Azaria Dianne Hogans Dancers: Brittany Henderson Precious Harris Jazmin Pettit Thalia Sheehan Calen Smith

Choreography: Azaria Rianne Hogans Dancer: Janae Hammond Music: Don't You Think I Do by James Blake, edited by Azaria Text: greenhouses by nayyirah waheed, spoken by Tambra Fore, Azaria Hogans, Brittany Henderson, Asiyah Martin Lighting Design: Tabita Cercea

A special thanks to Hyun Jung and her cast and also my cast for making this possible. Video created by Asiyah Martin

A dance dedicated to the anonymous writer of the article "Open Letter to My Attacker." Dancers: Ariel Lewis, Briyona Whitley, Taryn McDaniel Music by: Wings1 by SoundFORMovement

2016 choreographed by Azaria Hogans Dancers: Ariel Lewis, Brandon Garza, Briyona Whitley, Carley Nimmo, Emily Sese Music: "4 141" by Michael Wall (soundFORMovement)