Following the roaring success of his Beatles tribute Pepperland, Mark Morris teams up again with musical collaborator Ethan Iverson for The Look of Love, coming to Walton Arts Center Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 7 pm. 

This performance is a wistful and heartfelt homage to the chart-topping songs of Burt Bacharach. Bacharach was a towering figure in popular music, known for soaring melodies and unique orchestrations influenced by jazz, rock and Brazilian music paired with longtime lyricist Hal David's unsentimental, poignant lyrics. This evening-length work features original choreography by Morris and new musical arrangements by Iverson, performed by an ensemble of piano, trumpet, bass and drums, with singer, actress and Broadway star Marcy Harriell (In the Heights, Rent) on lead vocals. 

We asked Domingo Estrada Jr., a longtime Mark Morris Dance Group company member, a few questions to better understand this breathtakingly talented group. 

What can audiences expect when they come to see this performance? 

Audiences will have an opportunity to enjoy the marvelous music of Burt Bacharach accompanied by Mark Morris’s imaginative choreography, which compliments the poetic lyrics of Hal David. 

What drew you to the performance field? 

Being part of a close community and sharing something bigger than myself has always been important. Working alongside others in a community who value the significance and depth of offering visual performance art feels essential. Additionally, having this shared experience with the audience draws an enhanced connection with the world.  

Do you have any pre-show rituals or warm-ups? If so, what are they? 

For my pre-show routine, I enjoy rolling around on the floor with contemporary movement as a functional warmup to my entire anatomy. With great sensitivity to joint articulation and effort, I strive to heighten movement efficiency and stimulate dynamic, varied range of motion.  

Pick 5 words that best describe this work. 

Colorful. Inclusive. Nostalgic. Inviting. Evocative. 

What is the best advice that you have been given in your career? 

“Be water.” That is a quote from the philosophy of Bruce Lee. That quote was echoed by my father, who is one of my greatest teachers. The meaning behind that wisdom has always had a profound rippling impact on my being, pouring into my approach towards dance and performing.  

Is there a section of this piece that is your favorite to perform? 

“Don't Make Me Over.” I really appreciate and connect to the honesty and vulnerability of the lyrics. The movement crafted to mirror these qualities is superb and resonates with my sentiment to the song. 

What are some unique or memorable experiences you’ve had while touring with the Mark Morris Dance Group? 

The opportunity to travel all over the world and perform with close colleagues is such a blessing and delight. My favorite part of touring and performing is getting to chat with audience members after shows. Listening to their interpretations of what they experience is always fascinating and such a joy.  

What songs, artists or genres of music are you currently listening to? 

I love to listen to many different artists and genres from all eras. For now, here are tracks heavy in rotation: “Hold Me Up (Thank You)” by Khruangbin, “My Golden Years” by The Lemon Twigs, “Broke Generation” by Retrofile and “Deep Blue” by The Midnight… to name a few.