Premium Blend:Celebration & Commemoration
University of Arizona’s premium Dance Ensemble blends the end of one season with the opening of another. Offering a mixture of ballet, modern and jazz genres, this year’s Premium Blend features eclectic creations by the program’s renowned dance faculty.
First commissioned by the Illinois Dance Theatre in the mid-eighties, Professor Douglas Nielsen restages "Façade" in celebration of its 25th Anniversary. The choreography, separated into 13 movements, will be accompanied by live orchestra.
Also coupled with live music is "Episode No. 1 (Recuerdo)." Reconstructed for UA Dance by Walter C. Kenndy, former rehearsal director for the Lewitzky Dance Company, and UA faculty member Amy Ernst, a Lewitzky Company member for ten years, "Recuerdo (I remember)," shares with its audience the legacy of the memorable and distinguished American choreographer Bella Lewitzky (1916-2004). The choreography explores an emotionally powerful journey through memories of love and loss.
Artist in Residence Sam Watson brings with him "Sculptured Garden," also choreographed in the mid-eighties. The piece draws its inspiration from various sculpture features at the Hirshorn Sculpture Gardens in Washington, DC. Faculty member Michael Williams’ "SCAT" explores the improvised melodies and rhythms of Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Torme. The conceptual piece honors the playful spirit of scat singing mirrored both the intricate and virtuosic movement.
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