The Saint Mary’s department of dance will present its annual spring dance showcase Friday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 21, with showings at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in Little Theatre. This year’s colorful performance is entitled “Dance Kaleidoscope,” and will be an exhibition of technically proficient student dancers performing a variety of dance styles.
Professor Laurie Lowry said in an email the performance was inspired by the way a kaleidoscope offers an endless array of shifting colors and diverse patterns.
“For dance, it is a blending of movement phrases and creating a variety of patterns that can be manipulated to create an interesting visual palate,” she said.
Last year’s dance performance sought inspiration from the visual arts, such as famous works of art. This year, Lowry said the dance department wanted the “freedom to select a wide variety of styles” for “Dance Kaleidoscope.”
Professor Michele Kriner said in an email that this year’s dance performance seeks to spotlight the unique abilities and techniques each dancer possesses.
“This year there are many more solos and small group dances than in the past,” she said. “With a small company possessing such advanced technique, it was essential to allow them to shine.”
Organizing the preliminary aspects of “Dance Kaleidoscope” was the most difficult part of choreographing a dance performance of this caliber, Lowry said.
“I think getting started is the most difficult stage,” she said. “Once in the studio and with the dancers, miracles happen and creativity takes over. Working with other artists, choreographers, lighting designers and costume designers open new perspectives and ideas on one’s own work.”
Every year, Kriner said the show becomes a balancing act, but through hard work and dedication everyone involved is able to pull together an amazing performance.
“Balancing rehearsals with class schedules, breaks and personal issues can be a challenge,” she said. “This company is so professional in its dedication and perseverance that they overcame that challenge.”
Lowry said more students should take dance classes because they are “a great way to get in shape” and have fun, too.
“[Dance] will bring pleasure to [students’] lives and give them a break from their daily activities,” she said.
For those who appreciate dance but are not ready to take a class themselves, Lowry said she recommends attending “Dance Kaleidoscope” as the performance is sure to enlighten and entertain all those in attendance.
“Dance and the arts bring joy to our lives,” she said. “It enriches our lives and addresses the situations we experience.”
Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone and in person via the Moreau Center Box Office.
