The art of dance is a form of expression that dates back to prehistoric times. It's been used as a way for people to communicate and connect with one another, as well as being a popular form of entertainment. It is a universal language, creating a connection between choreographer, dancer, and audience members.
The Sonoma State Dance Department hosted the Fall Dance Concert the weekend of Dec. 4 to Dec. 7. The concert showcased an array of student choreography and dance talent. Audience members were treated to dances from genres including contemporary, ballet, hip-hop, jazz, lyrical, Bollywood, and traditional Indian dancing.
The opening number, titled "Stir" kicked off the concert with a bang. The scene was set by a moon-like glow in the background, while all the dancers laid on the floor dressed in pure white. As the music began the lights started to change, the dancers rising to their feet. The Gloria Rubio choreographed piece was featured musical accompaniment in the form of "Be Here Now," by Ray Lamontagne, coolly working in sync with dramatic lighting.
Elsewhere, choreographer Amy Lynn McGrath showcased her piece "Blanket World" with two dancers lying beside one another on the floor, covered with a blanket. This bedroom scene portrayed the struggles of a relationship, as the dancers paced along the bedroom floor, and danced in each other's arms. The music of "Bisonaurs" by Coco Rosie complimented the emotion and at sometimes frustration shown in the movement of the onstage couple.
Bollywood dancing took the stage next as three student dancers performed "A Breath of Bollywood." Asha Cofield and Nailah Cofield co-choreographed this number, and performed it with fellow student Smrity Singh. The Bollywood scene was set with the use of belly dancing costumes and scarves as props.
Returning from the intermission, audience members were lulled by a slow and contemporary dance titled "eFFECTION". Choreographed by Kellye McKee, the number featured dancers biding for one another's attention while their partners fought to be alone. This piece displayed the emotional struggle that takes place between those filled with affection.
A rainforest-like scene came across the stage for the next piece, with sounds of water and a forest green light in the background. The piece titled "Life is a divine chaos. Embrace it, and enjoy the ride" encompassed a serene mood, and calmed the stage as dancers performed, speeding up and slowing down with the pace of the music.
The Jazz number "440" took place in a bar scene, and portrayed a struggle between a woman and her heart. Unable to decide between two men, performer and choreographer Gloria Rubio danced with fellow students Adam Burkholder and Clint Campbell, fighting to decide which of them would win her heart.
Following the last performance, all of the artists and dancers took the stage as the audience members gave one last round of applause, honoring them for expertly exploring one of the oldest art forms imaginable.
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