Southern Utah University’s dance program will be opening their spring dance concert on Friday, March 22. The concert, titled “Constellations: Tethered Souls,” has performances March 22, 23 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee performance March 23 at 2 p.m. “Constellations” is a student-choreographed concert with artistic direction from dance faculty member Nancy Dobbs Owens.
The theme revolves around outer space with each piece also having the ability to be interpreted differently, an idea that came from a conversation between the student choreographers and Owens.
“[It was] regarding the interconnectivity of dancing bodies, mirroring something like a constellation of stars,” said Taylor Tumminia.
The concert features pieces choreographed by SUU students like Tumminia, including Erin Fonseca, Eli Davis, Destiny Adams-Watt, Liza Tarbet, Larissa Hindes, Allie Misbach and Abbie Cobb. Students applied to choreograph by answering questions surrounding the concept, creative processes and movement vocabulary they planned on using in their pieces.
“A very interesting dynamic is created when your peers/friends become your
choreographer/leader,” said Tumminia, whose piece “Fare Thee Well” features freshman guitarist Kaylin deLespinasse. “Luckily, we are a community that is so supportive of one another and pays respect to taking on the roles of friend and choreographer/dancer simultaneously.”
There is no level of experience required to apply to be a choreographer, and many students are choreographing for the first time, which contributes to making the concert interesting for all.
“In this concert specifically, there are many genres of dance being represented that make the show relatable to a very large audience,” said Tumminia. “I would especially urge non-dancers to attend this concert in order to have a deeper understanding of what we do, to learn where their biases or preferences may exist in dance and to simply be entertained!”
“Constellations” will take place in the Eileen and Allen Anes Studio Theatre and is free to SUU students.
“I think it’s really important to come to our show with an open mind and an understanding that everyone’s lived experiences exist in the work that they present, which makes every piece unique, personal and beautiful,” said Tumminia. “Dance is for everyone!”
Author: Tessa Cheshire
Photos courtesy of Asher Swan
arts@suunews.net
