Kean Dance Theatre (KDT) presented the highly anticipated Dimensions of Dance performance this past weekend at Wilkins Theatre. Works choreographed by Faculty, Alumni, Students, and Guest Choreographers. Special guests for the event included children of Kean faculty; New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble youth company and dancers from the salsa dance company Cultural Explosion. This two and a half hour performance made it obvious that blood, sweat, tears, and HOURS of hard work went into this highly energetic performance. This year's show celebrated the beauty and art of the many dimensions of dance, consisting of diverse works including contemporary, modern, jazz and ethnic dance forms. This year's performers made it their duty to share their talents and spread the art and joy of dance.
The show opened with a solo performance by a wonderful woman that is no stranger to dance, Dr. Sharon Boyd-Jackson. This professor of psychology seemed to naturally excel in her responsibility to pull the audience in and set the tone for the show. The shows first piece "El Hogar De Las Mujeres" consisted of 4 movements that evolved from its tribute to the mothers of civilization and women of the world to blessing the earth, to women and girls connecting with their past, their present and their future. From the audience it felt like we were looking in an intimate moment with women ranging from the na‹ve and innocent to the wise and educated.
They then turned the show over with a tribute to Mr. Ray Charles in "A Dance For Ray".
The show continued with "Celebration Of Eostre", "Milonga de Amor", "My Immortal", "Rite Of Spring", and switched it up before intermission with "La Gasolina" by Daddy Yankee and a lively performance by the KDT crew and special quests.
Resuming the performance after intermission gave birth to "When Mourning Comes", a tribute to both 9/11 and Tsunami victims and family. Followed by "Fever", "It's A Man's World", "Too Darn Hot", "Yamaya", "The Envelope", and "Swing Brotha's And Sista's Swing".
"The Envelope", a fine example of modern dance, was performed by The New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble, originally performed in 1986 by The Parsons Dance Company. Watching the performer's frolic around stage with an envelope was a treat for the audience adding humor to the show.
The verdict is in. Kean Dance Theatre put on an amazing performance that no one could possibly have anticipated and I think all that witnessed this dance extravaganza would agree with me. It was truly a dynamic performance that showcased all forms of dance and welcomed dance enthusiasts of all ages and expertise. KDT and guests need to know that your passion and hard work showed through in every performance.
