Dance 2010 program provides classical and contemporary works, Feb. 19-28

February 19, 2010

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Beginning tonight, Feb. 19, at 7:30 p.m., the University of Florida School of Theatre and Dance will take audiences on a limitless journey from a children’s home in Israel to an enchanted garden of dancing orchids.

“The great thing about this concert is that it’s not just dance,“ Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) dance major, junior Josh Sallerson said. “It is very theatrical.”

The concert, titled Dance 2010, incorporates a variety of classical and contemporary dance works. The works are choreographed by renowned professional artists and UF faculty, Ric Rose, director of the concert, said. The performance has a mixture of dances differing in tone, including serious, emotionally moving, thought provoking, celebratory and comedic.

The performance, which runs through Feb. 28, will be held in the Constans Theatre of the Nadine McGuire Pavilion.

Dancers have been extensively rehearsing for this concert for months and weeks, Rose said. Some have even been practicing their roles since last summer.

Several guest artists have visited the school to set professional works on the dancers, including Susan Marshall who came in January to audition students for her famous piece “Cloudless.” Dancers chosen for the piece spent an intensive two weeks auditioning, learning, training and rehearsing.

Senior BFA dance major Courtney Baron said, “The piece is about human experience and relationships.”

She said they spent a great deal of time in rehearsal diving into the deeper emotional meanings of the piece after they were introduced to the mechanics of the dance. Even the slightest glance possesses an abundant meaning, she said.

UF faculty who choreographed work for the concert include Neta Pulvermacher, Isa Garcia-Rose, Ric Rose and Kristin O’Neal.

Although the dancers were bursting with lively, positive energy when talking about the performance, Sallerson admitted it is stressful.

“So many hours are put into the production to produce the best show we can produce,” Sallerson said.

Ticket prices are $17 for the general public and $13 for students, senior citizens (55 and older) and UF faculty/staff. Tickets may be purchased at the University Box Office, 352-392-1653.