Five CU Boulder MFA dance candidates present new works in the Charlotte York Irey Theatre this October as part of two dance concerts: “re-membering” and “Lacunae.” Their individual pieces unpack themes surrounding race, gender and neurological difference.
‘re-member – ing’, Oct. 4-6, Works by Taylor Madgett and Kshitija C. Saturdekar.
In “re-membering,” Taylor Madgett and Kshitija Saturdekar use many genres—including classical and contemporary Indian, modern, jazz, and urban styles and hip-hop—to question racial and gender identities and norms.
“My research in dance has always involved the role of society and gaze in dances and the expectations and opinions surrounding a dancing body,” said Saturdekar.
For Madgett, exploring racial identities through dance resonates on a personal level. “I struggle with the double consciousness of being African American, while also being othered as a black person in America,” said Madgett. “This show takes a stab at potential solutions.”
‘Lacunae’, Oct. 25-27, Works by Kristen Holleyman, Gretchen LaBorwit and Kelley Ann Walsh. “Lacunae” unfolds in 3 parts, exploring dystopian fairy tales, feminism, and the relationship between intimacy and the unknown.
Kristen Holleyman’s performance is inspired by unexpected connections. “It’s the idea of inevitable connectedness, of being suspended in the web of seemingly disparate threads,” she said.
Walsh’s work chronicles the evolution of square dancing through the lens of Appalachian culture and history.
Finally, LaBorwit has used the inspiration behind a classic fairy tale to explore current events and the modern world.
“My concert tells a dystopian upside down ‘Alice in Wonderland’-esque tale,” added LaBorwit. “The inspiration is how can I use dance and story to find solutions or ease from the problems that are monumental.”
Tickets start at $16 for both “re-membering” and “Lacunae” and available at cupresents.org, by phone at 303-492-8008 and in person at the box office (972 Broadway) Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.