The DanceMakers 2024 event, hosted by Texas Woman’s University (TWU) in Denton, Texas, is set to bring an eclectic mix of dance performances to the Margo Jones Performance Hall on November 14, 15, and 16. The program features both student-created works and a faculty-led piece, encouraging students to explore diverse dance concepts and styles.
Elisa De La Rosa, an assistant professor of dance at TWU, is overseeing this year’s presentation, which includes a mix of genres such as contemporary ballet folklórico and jazz solo performances. De La Rosa emphasizes the importance of creativity in her students, asking them to create the type of dance they wish to see in the world. Her own piece, “Soñadoras,” will be the concert’s finale. It explores themes of immigration and dreams, drawing on her grandmother’s experiences in the 1950s. Unique to this piece is the inclusion of De La Rosa’s grandmother’s voice narrating her journey from Mexico to the United States, accompanied by projected images and a live sound score created by TWU staff musician Leoncarlo Canlas.
In addition to “Soñadoras,” DanceMakers will present six student-choreographed pieces, each highlighting distinct themes and dance expertise:
– **”Omni Trium Perfectum”** by Carla Rodriguez Oliva features themes of resilience and strength.
– **”Tantalizing Interludes”** by Cadence Banks incorporates Afrofuturistic elements with a blend of Egyptian and cosmic imagery.
– **”This is Not About You”** by Millenique Brown presents a jazz solo.
– **”Cultivadores de Energía”** by Ilse Maìte showcases contemporary ballet folklórico techniques.
– **”Facets of Being: An Empaths Tale”** by Amanda Laabs plays with the perception of time.
– **”Conform”** by Veronica Ramirez emphasizes technical movement and energy.
The performances offer student dancers the opportunity to develop skills in endurance and rapid costume changes, preparing them for professional careers. Tickets for the event are priced at $10 for general admission and $5 for students, inviting the Denton community to engage with innovative dance expressions at TWU.