Remembering Danny Shapiro

Minneapolis, Minnesota


I have not made this kind of recommendation before.


Starting tonight and running through Sunday evening, Shapiro & Smith Dance will present "ANYTOWN" at the Southern Theater in Minneapolis.


ANYTOWN is a poetic collaboration pairing the choreography of Danial Shapiro and Joanie Smith with the music of Bruce Springsteen, Patti Scialfa, and Soozie Tyrell (of the E Street Band). This production has played to standing ovations in New York City and across the country. Addressing the concerns of today's middle and working classes, ANYTOWN follows three ordinary families as they cope with floods, war, infidelity, and one another.


This weekend, ANYTOWN will be performed without the presence of my dear friend, Danny Shapiro.


Danny died October 3, at age 48, after a four-year battle with prostate cancer. Too soon.


I met Danny 10-11 years ago. Didn't really get to know him until he got sick in 2002. Taking the time to know him these last four years was one of the best things I have ever done for myself.


His accolades have been reported on the obituary pages of the Star Tribune and New York Times, and on www.danceinsider.com.


Tickets for ANYTOWN can be reserved by calling the Southern Theater, 612-340-1725.


As part of the ANYTOWN performances on the national touring circuit, Danny started the "PSA in the USA" program to encourage men of all ages to take 30 seconds to have their blood drawn for a PSA test to report the early prospects of prostate cancer. He never had a clue that cancer could happen to him; nor did his wife. Early detection can result in early treatment.


Please encourage the men in your life -- including yourself, if applicable -- to take the PSA blood draw. Then, if you live anywhere close to Minneapolis, join me in attending a performance of ANYTOWN at the Southern Theater this weekend.


I loved Danny Shapiro, and I know there are many people who love you -- or who you love -- that should stay around for a while.