Western's 'Winter Dances' inspired by tree rings, savannas, Chopin

Advanced choreography students from the WWU Department of Theatre and Dance have taken inspiration from subjects as diverse as the African savanna, bio-luminescence, a Greek dithyramb, and tree rings found in old growth forests to set their original works for the Jan. 15-18 performances of ‘Winter Dances.”

Choreographers also looked to the music of Arvo Part, Kronos String Quartet and Chopin for creative stimulation. Auditions for “Winter Dances” take place in the fall, with rehearsals spilling over into winter. The evening of original student choreography is an annual event that is part of the only Bachelor’s of Fine Art dance program in the state of Washington. The performances in “Winter Dances” are contemporary and impressionistic, rather than a specific form, such as ballet or hip-hop. Dance Professor Nolan Dennett advises audiences to allow the work “to wash over them with out trying to 'figure it out'. It has appeal for the whole family.”

Students in the Dance major study the creation time-based art for the proscenium stage - as choreographers, dancers, and lighting designers.

“It’s lovely to watch,” said Dennett of the completed dances. The students also fill roles behind-the-scenes as stage managers, costume and lighting designers and master electricians.

Performances of “Winter Dances” are Jan. 15-17 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 18 at 2 p.m. on the WWU Performing Arts Center Mainstage. Tickets are $15, or $8 with a valid student ID or patrons under 18. The WWU Box Office is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are available online at tickets.wwu.edu, at the box office, or by calling (360) 650-6146.