The Kansas State University School of Music, Theatre, and Dance will present WinterDance 2014 at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, and Friday, Dec. 5, and at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, in Chapman Theatre at Nichols Hall.
WinterDance 2013 features a variety of dance styles, including modern, tap, jazz, African, ballet and more.
The K-State Tap Dance Ensemble, directed by Julie Pentz, associate professor of dance, will perform a new work. Pentz also has created a new classical jazz piece, “Twisted,” which features 10 dancers. David Ollington, associate professor of dance, will present two new works, including a dance with a Christmas theme.
Laura Donnelly, assistant professor of dance, will present part two of her “Crystal Ballet,” featuring an original composition by K-State alumnus Bryce Craig. The “Crystal Ballet” movements are inspired by the transformative process of the ordering of molecules in a crystal when it is heated, melts and turns into a liquid.
The K-State African Music and Dance Ensemble will perform a new traditional piece titled “Bamaya,” which is based on a traditional social dance of the Dagomba culture in Northern Ghana that is performed at social events or on stage by professional companies. The lead drums for the ensemble, called “talking drums,” mimic the native language of the culture and are part of the communication between the musicians and dancers. The ornate pom-pom belts are a traditional part of the wardrobe and emphasize the hip movements of the dance.
General admission seating is $10 for students and $15 for the public, plus applicable taxes and fees. For more information on tickets, call 785-523-6428 or visit the McCain Auditorium box office.
Local students of the cast and crew are Bonny Boultinghouse, K-State Tap Dance Ensemble, junior in management, of Great Bend; and Drew Reisner, Lighting Design, senior in theatre, of Hoisington.