Backstage at Pointeworks: Caili Quan’s Press Play
Behind the Scenes of Caili Quan’s Press Play
At Pointeworks, we are committed to bringing innovative and compelling contemporary ballet to the stage. As we prepare for our NYC Performances on March 21 & 22 at Alvin Ailey, we are thrilled to feature Caili Quan’s Press Play—a rhythmic, high-energy piece that keeps dancers and audiences alike on the edge of their seats.
Meet the Choreographer: Caili Quan
A former BalletX dancer, Caili Quan has made an impressive transition from performer to full-time choreographer, creating works that are both physically demanding and musically engaging. In a recent Dance Magazine feature, Quan reflected on the challenges and rewards of stepping into this new role:
“It was tricky taking that [dancer] hat off after I’d been wearing it for decades,” she says. “But I think the great part about making dances is that you’re still inside of your body, so I still get to move in space. I still feel very physical whenever I make a work. I get the best of both.” (Dance Magazine, February 2025)
This deep connection to movement informs Quan’s creative process, ensuring her choreography remains dynamic and immersive.
Inside Press Play
Originally commissioned by BalletX, Press Play premiered in May 2021, set to the electrifying beats of “The Rockafeller Skank” by Fatboy Slim. The piece made its DanceAspen debut in March 2022 and became part of Pointeworks’ repertoire at our inaugural performance in June 2024. Since then, it has earned acclaim for its infectious momentum and exhilarating spirit.
Quan’s choreographic process blends structured movement with room for interpretation. As she told Dance Magazine, her approach has shifted over time:
“When I was both dancing and choreographing, I wanted to show everything because I wanted to feel everything first,” she explains. “I was like, ‘This feels good on me, so I think it’ll feel good on them.’” (Dance Magazine, February 2025)
Now, she often provides a rough draft of movement and watches how dancers interpret it, adapting based on their responses.
Rehearsing Press Play
Bringing Press Play to life requires precision, stamina, and a strong sense of musicality. Pointeworks dancers have been working closely with stager Andrea Yorita, a former BalletX dancer, to refine the choreography and fully embody its high-energy style. The process has been an exciting one, as dancers navigate the fast-paced footwork, bold dynamics, and rhythmic complexity that define the piece.
Want a sneak peek into rehearsal? Watch our exclusive behind-the-scenes video, featuring Andrea Yorita working with the dancers as they bring Press Play to life!
Making the Leap to Choreography
For dancers considering a future in choreography, Quan emphasizes the importance of vocalizing their ambitions early.
“A big part of me becoming a full-time choreographer was sharing my dreams with the people around me as a dancer,” she says. “Share that you want to make work, and you never know the opportunities that will come forward.” (Dance Magazine, February 2025)
Her journey is a testament to the power of taking creative risks and embracing new artistic roles.
Experience Press Play Live!
Don’t miss your chance to see Caili Quan’s Press Play live at Pointeworks’ NYC Performances on March 21 & 22 at Alvin Ailey. This electrifying work is just one highlight of an unforgettable evening of contemporary ballet.
📖 Source: Dance Magazine – “How Pivoting to Choreographing Full-Time Changed 3 Former Dancers’ Lives”by Lauren Wingenroth, February 10, 2025
