University of Utah's "Ballet Showcase" presented several works choreographed and danced by U dance students.

he U’s semiannual “Ballet Showcase” demonstrated exceptional talent in young dancers who are sure to leave a lasting impression for years to come.

The show took place last week in front of an enthusiastic audience. Every year, the department of ballet hosts a fall and a spring “Ballet Showcase.” These performances are a collection of ballet, jazz and contemporary works choreographed, produced and performed by U students. It’s the perfect opportunity for students to present their choreography skills and it gives them a chance to perform in front of a large audience. Although the performance was a little too long and the first half seemed to lack variety, there was still plenty to rave about.

Jennifer Deckert’s “Song Bird” was a gorgeous, expressive piece with music by the Dixie Chicks. Soft, flowing blue skirts looked like rippling waves as the five dancers spun gracefully around the stage. Deckert made use of intricate arm movements, and when the dancers struck a pose, it was breathtaking. The dancers also accented their steps and the varied dynamic range kept the piece interesting. They also were able to convey sensitive emotions, resulting in moving, powerful images.

“Ooangolema,” choreographed by Shannon Ricks, took a look at dancing from an ethnic standpoint. With a lot of the steps deriving from the samba, the piece was a mixture of Brazilian, African and French culture. Dressed in bright, colorful costumes and bare feet, the dancers seemed to be having the time of their lives. It was enough to make one want to jump up and go join them on the stage. In addition, the choreography was intelligent and original. This was one of those pieces that you could watch over and over and manage to see something new each time.

“Time, Passion and the Dream” by Boyd Stout explored all the possibilities of the human body. It was choreographed in three sections and featured three types of music. The first section began with the dancers carrying lights that looked a lot like candles and placing them on the ground. The modern movements were performed by the candlelight approximation, creating a calming effect. It seemed to symbolize the constant burning of time, which was evident through the dancers’ expressions.

An extremely passionate duet performed by Stout and Staci Wilkinson made up the second section. The two dancers connected with each other and explored beautiful, unique ways of moving. A video production was the main focus of the third section. The dancers conveyed a sense of longing and hope, while the video displayed various images such as a cigarette, a kiss and a market, leaving the piece open to interpretation.

Michael Paul Bravo choreographed “Ballet Brilliante,” a ballet which was, indeed, brilliant. Nine dancers in white leotards, white skirts and point shoes created a radiant picture of purity and innocence. The music by Vivaldi highlighted the linear patterns and quick rhythms. The dancers’ charming stage presence made one feel young at heart. This was classical ballet at its best.

Mark Harootian’s traditional extravagant piece closed the show as usual. This time, it was “Ain’t Misbehavin’-A Tribute to Fats Waller.” Taking the audience back to the 1920s jazz era, this was a wonderful, fun experience. Harootian knows how to tell a great, comical story through the language of dance, and he has a keen sense of musicality. His creative choreography matched the music perfectly, and although the piece was long, it never got boring. The dancers obviously enjoyed themselves and displayed excellent acting skills in addition to technique. Sparkling costumes added a touch of glitter to their steps.

The “Ballet Showcases” usually display a myriad of creative works, and this was no exception.
marissa@red-mag.com