Students to perform Winter Dances Jan. 15 to 18
Advanced students of the choreography series produce new works for the proscenium stage. Choreographers this year have turned to subjects as diverse as: The African savanna, bio-luminescence, a Greek dithyramb and tree rings found in old growth forests as well as the music of Arvo Part, Kronos String Quartet and Chopin for inspiration.
The performances of their Winter Dances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15, 16 and 17 and at 2 p.m. Jan. 18 on the PAC mainstage.
The evening of original student choreography is an annual event that is part of the only Bachelor’s of Fine Art ("BFA") 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, lighting designers. “It’s lovely to watch,” says Dennett of the completed dances. The students also fill roles behind-the-scenes as stage managers, costume and lighting designers and master electricians.