Dance Performances
Each year faculty and students produce six to eight full evening dance performances, as well as less formal showcases. Undergraduate and graduate students also have the opportunity to travel out-of-state to perform.
The touring ensemble has performed in 14 different states and Japan, Mexico, Amsterdam, South America and Scotland. Special invitations in this country have included the Gala Performance of the National College Dance Festival (`96) and performances at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
Auditions are held after the start of the semester for faculty and student works. Students who audition are required to be registered in a dance class. Auditions are open to dance majors, dance minors, non-degree students and part-time students. Cast lists are posted simultaneously usually within a day and a half after the auditions. Students are not expected to over extend themselves and have the right to decline acceptance for a specific cast. If a student is selected for more than one cast and there is a time conflict between them, the student MUST choose only one cast.
The Galaxy II Series
In the Season
November 30, December 1
The best and brightest of our undergraduates and graduates. Their works have been performed nationally and internationally and always have an impact - so much so that these concerts have become an audience favorite.
Premium Blend
February 21-24 - February 29 and March 1
Opening the program will be Serenade, perhaps the most inspired creation of George Balanchine's career. Leslie Peck a former member of the NYC Ballet, will stage this work for UA Dancers and Melissa Lowe and Jory Hancock, both of whom danced the work many times, will direct rehearsals. Here is another chance to see the genius of Balanchine.
Also on the program is Michael Williams' new piece titled Stay, set to some songs you will love to hear again, including Walk-on-By, If You Go Away, and My Baby Just Cares For Me.
Douglas Nielsen's signature solo, Headstart was choreographed in 1981 as a tribute to the Olympic athlete (in triumph and defeat.) Then, a spice of jazz tops off the evening with Susan Quinn's masterful Zuhm. A power packed piece that roams thorough various temperaments from lyrical to rowdy to stately and calm. It's the "perfect storm" and in this case, the "perfect closer."
Spring Collection
April 24, 25 and May 2-4, 2008
The final bouquet of the season is shaped by the collective efforts of Elizabeth George, Amy Ernst, James Clouser, Douglas Nielsen, Sam Watson and Barbea Williams, the director of the UA African Dance Ensemble. Pieces include Sam Watson's The Weather Piece and The 12th Root of 2 choreographed by James Clouser. Those who have a soft spot for animals will love the new offering by Elizabeth George, who is dedicating her ballet to various philanthropies that support animal care.