The West Virginia University School of Theatre and Dance will present “Dance Now!” Feb. 28 - March 2 in the Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre at the Creative Arts Center.
“Dance Now!” is an annual dance concert choreographed by students, faculty and guest artists. The performance gives WVU students the opportunity to hone their performance abilities in a professional environment while learning about collaboration between performer, choreographer and designer.
"This year's production of ‘Dance Now!’ has something for everyone,” said faculty choreographer Maureen Kaddar, visiting assistant professor of dance. “Thirteen different dance pieces in a wonderful variety of genres and styles from classical ballet to tap, contemporary, modern and jazz. The choreography is by guest artists, students and faculty. Come on out to see how this program continues to grow. The student dancers outdo themselves year after year and this year is no exception."
The 2019 “Dance Now!” production centers around work done by renown New York City choreographer Doug Varone. The work will feature a 12-member cast of graduating senior BA Dance majors. The cast actually had a chance to work in person with Mr. Varone when he visited campus to put the final touches on his work.
"People should come see ‘Dance Now!’ because it truly is a show for everyone! ‘Dance Now!’ has a perfect variety of dances within the show that it's sure to interest someone somehow and in some way. So much work, artistry, time and passion has been poured into creating these pieces for an amazing compilation of dances for others to enjoy with us. Come out to see the artistry and athleticism combine for an amazing show,” said Kaci McCleery, senior BA Dance and Chinese studies major.
“This physical, exciting and very dynamic piece is a treat for all and a must see,” said director Dr. Yoav Kaddar, associate professor of dance. “Bringing such top caliber dance artists like Mr. Varone to campus and having the privilege for our students to work with him, is just one of the ways that the WVU Dance Program strives to enhance our students’ dance education and training while here at WVU.”
Scenic design is by Steven Neuenschwander, professor of clinical associate professor of technical direction; costume design by Mary McClung, director of costuming and professor of costume design, Tiffany Delligatti, clinical assistant professor of costuming and Chole Cappuccilli, MFA costume design student; lighting design by Alan McEwen, professor of lighting and sound design, Joshua Williamson, director of the School of Theatre & Dance and professor of lighting design, senior BFA design and technology major, Marcus Geise, junior BFA design and technology major, Katherine Piatek, MFA lighting design and technology student, Justin Burns and MFA lighting design and technology student, Tom Gillette; and sound design by Alan McEwen, professor of lighting and sound design; the stage manager is junior BFA design and technology major, Rowan Jalso.
“Dance Now!” will take the stage in the Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre at the Creative Arts Center Feb. 28-March 1 at 7:30 p.m. and March 2 at 2 p.m. Tickets for “Dance Now!” are available on campus at the Mountainlair and Creative Arts Center Box Office locations (Mon. - Fri. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), by calling 304-293-SHOW (7469) and online at http://ticketmaster.com. To inquire about group rates, email cac@mail.wvu.edu.