How does a world-famous modern dance company move forward when its founder dies? For the Paul Taylor Dance Company, the man and his company are part of the legacy of modern dance in America. But there are no guarantees; the future of the company depends on the leadership of the next artistic director. Who would carry that mantle? Only Paul Taylor knew the answer.
In the spring of 2018, Taylor invited company dancer, Michael Novak, to his home for what Michael thought would be a casual conversation about his recent performances; but his world was about to change. He was thrust into a life-changing role when Paul told him he would become the company’s second artistic director. Michael was in shock. Four months later, on August 29, Paul died, and Michael is forced to navigate the politics and prerogatives of the company, charged with shepherding the company’s artistic survival while maintaining the integrity of its creator.
In his second year of the role, a global pandemic threatens everything. The company makes the difficult decision to close its smaller dance troupe, Taylor 2. What other hard decisions will this new leader face?
Set at a critical moment for a family of dancers, this documentary tells the story of how the Paul Taylor Dance Company will continue his legacy through its dancers, choreographers, and the successors Taylor chose to lead it after his death.