A spokesperson says---
“...In Session by choreographer Rena Butler is a collective portrait of coming of age, where the tension between conformity and rebellion shapes the action of maturation. The work explores how individuals navigate the process of finding themselves while moving within—and against—the collective, challenging the notion that growth requires uniformity and asserting instead that no student needs to be the same. Through layered physicality and communal rhythm, In Session reveals the nuanced journey of self-discovery within a community.
Social media can contribute to anxiety, depression, comparison, pressure to be perfect, external validation, loneliness, bullying, and finding joy in the downfall of others. In Renée I. McDonald’s work Likes vs Life, three dancers wrestle with these powerful forces, the need to connect, and the desire to escape.
In the world premiere work Berry Dreamin’, former Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Ailey II member Chalvar Monteiro centers the music, personality, and soul-stirring lyricism of Chuck Berry, the father of rock 'n' roll. This piece aims to reimagine the rich origin story for a star on the rise—the journey to adulthood and the moving target that is human connection against a day-dreamy, subconscious landscape that gives birth to our wildest dreams. The creation of Berry Dreamin' is commissioned by Dance St. Louis in celebration of Chuck Berry’s centennial.
Choreographer My’Kal Stromile’s Third Person Point of View begins in medias res—Latin for “in the midst of things.” We enter a non-traditional, three-person relationship in its fully functioning form: fluid, intricate, and quietly intimate. We then rewind to the beginning of the relationship, and what the audience sees is two people deeply attuned, and a third seeking entry, admiration, and a place to belong. As the title suggests, the piece invites the audience to witness from the outside, observing a relationship as it unfolds without ever being directly addressed.
Alvin Ailey’s Streams is an abstract exploration of bodies in space, danced to a percussion score by Miloslav Kabelac. Alvin Ailey’s highly structured yet fluid compilation of solos, duets, and group choreography reflects the formal, meditative mood of Kabelac’s music. While there is no narrative, the movement and music arouse distinct thoughts and feelings, evoking images and sensations inspired by bodies of water—from a gentle brook to a turbulent ocean—that correlate to the changing tides within us..."
CAST:
Kamani Abu, Jada Ammons, Christian Butts, Adanna Smalls, Carley Cruzat Brooks, Meredith Brown, Jennifer M. Gerken, Xavier Logan, Xhosa Scott, Darion Tuner, Eric J. Vidaña, Jordyn White
CREATIVE TEAM:
Francesca Harper (Artistic Director), Alvin Ailey (Founder/Choreographer), Chalvar Monteiro (Choreographer), Rena Butler (Choreographer), Renée I. McDonald (Choreographer), My’Kal Stromile (Choreographer), Sylvia Waters (Artistic Director Emerita)
