Slippery Rock University Dance Department faculty are entering the spotlight to showcase their work and talent at the Faculty and Guest Artist Dance Concert at 7 p.m., Oct. 25, at the Performing Arts Center’s Miller Theater.
Annie Franklin and Erin Kouwe, assistant professors of dance, kick off the concert with premieres of solo works. Jennifer Keller, professor of dance, and Lindsay Viatori, associate professor of dance, will screen experimental dance films created in Scotland and Yellowstone National Park. Jaya Mani, instructor of dance, presents “Thillana,” a Bharatanatyam quartet.
SRU’s Palenque student dance company will premiere “Champeta,” its latest work in its Colombian repertoire.
“Champeta is a form of cultural resistance and a symbol of identity for Colombian communities of African descent,” explained Melissa Teodoro, professor of dance and the Palenque’s artistic director. “Although first looked down upon by Colombia’s rich and elite, it is now practiced equally and with pride by all Colombians.”
The 11 student performers learned the Champeta from Colombian choreographer Luis Trouchon during a summer educational program in Colombia, directed by Teodoro.
The concert features a historic work by guest choreographer Trisha Brown, titled “Solo Olos.” The first act closes with an emotional work by 23 dancers presenting “(in effect)” by Pittsburgh-based choreographer Jaka Zakajinn.
Closing the program is a new work by guest hip-hop artist Shakia Barron titled “Don’t Hold Your Breath.”
“My creative practice emanates from the source: the African diaspora,” Barron said. “The epicenter of Black social dances and traditions have influenced my choreographic work through the styles of hip-hop, house and other street and club styles.”
Tickets are $15 for general admission and can be purchased online at sru.edu/tickets. More information about dance programs at SRU can be found on the department webpage.
