Modern, Motown, contemporary ballet and, for the first time, a traditional Indian dance: This is a sampling of what guests can expect to see at the Dance Ensemble’s spring concert being held May 1-3 at 8 p.m. in Bolton Theater.
The performance features a mix of nine student- and faculty-choreographed dances, including a piece developed specifically for senior students. “I think the senior piece is very special because it is their final experience and chance to come together to show us what they’ve learned,” said Julie Brodie, associate professor of dance.
Called “Fall, Catch, Step, Push,” the senior dance, choreographed by visiting professional choreographer Pamela Newell as part of a ten-day residency for any senior involved in dance, captures the moment of falling. “It’s a beautiful piece,” said Brodie.
It’s also the favorite part of the performance for Marta Hamilton ’14, who has been the stage manager for the last six dance concerts. “The senior dance has particular meaning for me this time,” said Hamilton. “It’s really exciting.”
Another highlight is “Render/Each Other/Whole,” choreographed by Kora Radella, assistant professor of dance. The modern piece, performed by Hannah Beckerman ’14 and Eden Deering ’14, is the only one being performed to live music that will be played by cellist Zoe Lyon ’15. It is one of the dances staged recently at the Cleveland Public Theater by Kenyon dance students.
Of the five student-choreographed dances, all but one stay within the modern idiom. The exception is a classical Indian piece taught by first-year student, Pankti Dalal ’17. “Pantki’s piece is really stunning and unusual,” said Brodie, noting that Dalal not only taught the dance, but staged it and will perform it as well. “That’s quite an undertaking.”
General admission tickets are $7.50. Tickets for persons over 65, non-Kenyon students and children under 12 cost $4. Kenyon student tickets cost $2.