Life > December 6, 2007

By Elizabeth Martin | Staff writer

The Fall Dance Concert performed by the Wake Forest University Dance Company Nov. 30 - Dec. 2 embraced all styles of dance, presenting an intriguing program with a refreshing amount of diversity that kept audience members riveted.

The program started with a traditional ballet dance entitled “Markitenka.” The curtain opened to reveal a line of doll-like dancers in bright colored dresses who presented delightful twirls and leaps in a Nutcracker-like style that first comes to mind when one thinks of dancers.

The next piece was choreographed by Nina Lucas, associate professor of dance. Entitled “V,” this work was inspired by the use of the V formation in Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation video. Jumping to another point on the broad spectrum of dance styles, this modern, upbeat number was performed to music from Cirque Du Soleil.

The curtain rose to the threatening image of black-clad figures standing sternly in a V backed by an eerie blue glow.

The intensity of the music combined with the tight, in-sync choreography and extremely effective lighting and costume contrast created a stunning number.

The next work, entitled “Neighbors,” veered in a completely new direction. Completely spontaneous, this number was performed by combined improvisation from Associate Professor of Dance Christina Soriano, guest performer Katherine Ferrier and the lighting and sound crew. As the program said, this kind of work ensures that “each performance (is) unique, surprising … and unrepeatable.”

The set consisted of a white picket fence that initially separated the two “neighbors” played by the dancers. The location and shape of the fence was altered quite often during the span of the work. When the work began (on Nov. 30 at least), Soriano was dancing on her side of the fence, watching Ferrier set up a chair and eyeing the broom she was holding.

Soriano broke the silence with a comment expressing how she could be fulfilled if only she had that broom.

After the initial moment of shock (from the Nutcracker-oriented audience members who were still waiting for the music to start), people began to relax and enjoy the novelty of the performance.

Between Soriano’s comments, Ferrier’s personification of the broom and the completely random guy that meandered across the stage in the middle of everything, this number had the audience laughing out loud as it sparkled with the pure joy of spontaneity.

The next work was choreographed by dance instructor Tina Yarborough-Liggins and was done to the hope-inspiring song “Imagine” by Kirk Franklin.

The work begins by showing two scenes of abuse.

The two victims, dressed in red, are then joined by a tan-clad group of dancers. This color contrast was brilliant as the two victims pushed aside their difficult lives and joined in the joyful leaps of the rest of the dancers, embracing the hope offered by Franklin in his song.

He mentions after one chorus that this song is dedicated to those who struggle. “Hear God whispering in your ear,” he said, and you will see how all the struggles can then be “gone.”

A heavenly ray of light then shines down from one side of the stage, providing the perfect final touch to this striking number.

“Atmosphere for Missing You” was choreographed by guest choreographer Duane Cyrus and had a minimalist feel, with dancers in flowing blue costumes gliding about a square of light on the floor.

“Adios” was choreographed for a couple by guest choreographer Gyula Pandi, and was a passionate work that was performed stunningly.

The music (Astor Piazzola) was infused with a deep sense of longing that perfectly mirrored the actions of the desperate female dancer as she tried to win back her lover.

The “Sting Suite” (choreographed by Lucas) was named for the music it features, and was an engaging work that included a shadow effect on the walls of the theater.

The final number, “Postponing Descent” was choreographed by Soriano, and included bomber jet noises as well as a surprise parachute entrance at the end.