Local performer Vemilo transforms the Moviehouse

On Friday, June 26, patrons at the Moviehouse in Millerton were treated to a performance by local artist and musician Vemilo, who returned to the theater’s biggest room for a second full-length show.

Regular patrons will know Theatre Three as the setting for post-screening interviews, Q&As, discussions and the theater’s monthly movie trivia night. Vemilo’s performance entirely reimagined the space. With just a few props and pieces of furniture, the stage was transformed into Vemilo’s sanctuary.

Vemilo, who grew up in the area and lives in Millerton, defines himself as “a pop performance artist whose purpose in life is to break boundaries, stigmas and bring people together through his music, fashion and visuals.” To breathe life into that vision, Vemilo changes genres, outfits and even gender expressions throughout his performances.

The show, entitled “Metaonoia,” took the enthusiastic audience through multiple, often emotional stages of what Vemilo refers to as his rebirth. Short vignettes set up original songs about identity and relationships, with the audience clapping along to the beat.

Moviehouse manager Jeremy Boviard is excited about alternative uses for the theatre. It could potentially act as a midsize venue for musical, literary and other artistic performances. The nearby Colonial Theatre in North Canaan has dipped its toes into live performances, but with that property up for sale, that momentum seems to be slowing.

With such a vibrant artistic community in the Northwest Corner and Dutchess County, another quality performance space would be a welcome addition. After all, if Vemilo’s performance taught us anything, it’s about the power of transformation and versatility.