few good men…dancing? It may seem like the words “men” and “dancing” might not be commonly associated, but they are in fact the two essential elements of a production coming to Kingsbury Hall on Wednesday. The production, titled, “A Few Good Men…DANCIN,’” showcases an all-male dance ensemble that will perform in various dance styles ranging from acrobatic movements and swing dance to Latin rhythms and dances honoring the body and spirit. There are even segments that celebrate boxing and martial arts. Likewise, the music is equally diverse, covering pop, rock, jazz, salsa, swing and classical styles.
“This show has such universal appeal. It is a show everyone can enjoy. This production celebrates the best moments from the New York performances in 1999, 2001 and 2002,” said producer Jeffrey Finn, according to a press release.

Due to the scarcity of men in the dance world, it is relatively easy for them to find work in this field. Usually, however, they tend to be overlooked, often just used as partners for the women to make them look good. A male dancer might be given a solo in a ballet, but when one compares the amount of stage time that the men are given compared to the women, it all seems rather unfair. But then again, who ever heard of a corps de ballet of all men?

Now is your chance to find out. It’s time for the men to take the stage and show everyone that they, too, can dance.

The Kingsbury Hall performance of “A Few Good Men…DANCIN’” is the first in a 16-city tour that runs through April. Audience members can expect to see 15 male cast members who come from a variety of dance backgrounds— ballet, modern, Broadway, Cirque du Soleil and from the nation’s top dance companies, including the Joffrey Ballet, the New York City Ballet and the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater. This versatile show is co-directed by Jeff Amsden and Ariadne C. Villarreal. It is choreographed by Amsden, who was an assistant choreographer for “Saturday Night Fever” in London.

As Finn comments, “The opening moments of the show are incredibly exciting—15 athletes on stage boxing to aerobic dance and movement. It’s a visceral experience.”
If watching a bunch of men dancing and performing incredible feats for two hours doesn’t sound like an exciting experience, I don’t know what does. Take a deep breath and prepare yourself for those dancin’ men.

“A Few Good Men…DANCIN’” comes to Kingsbury Hall Feb. 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, which range in price from $19 to $29, may be purchased by calling 581-7100 or 355-ARTS. University and group discounts are available.
marissa@red-mag.com