The Division of Dance at Texas Woman’s University is set to present its semiannual concert, DanceMakers, showcasing nine eclectic works from April 10-12 at the Margo Jones Performance Hall. The concert features a mix of live performances and a film, offering audiences both athletic and emotional experiences.
DanceMakers Schedule:
- Dates: April 10-12
- Times: Thursday at 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m.
- Location: Margo Jones Performance Hall, TWU Campus, Denton, Texas
- Tickets: $5 for students, $10 general admission, available [online only]
Professor of dance, Sarah Gamblin, noted the wide range of themes and styles that will be explored in the performances. “There’s some sophisticated statements being made,” Gamblin said, describing the variety—from physically demanding dances to those that pose philosophical questions about dance as a medium.
The concert will include eight live performances and one on film, with a cast of 35 dancers. Notable performances include Robin Conrad’s “the mess in our wake,” a vibrant ensemble piece, and “Cutting the Cord,” a solo film by Hailey Regenbrecht, which delves into themes of grief through its tactile visuals.
Of the nine works, two are choreographed by TWU faculty, incorporating their professional experiences and offering students a chance to engage with different aesthetic approaches. The faculty’s involvement highlights the collaborative spirit of the TWU dance community.
Other pieces include Breana Robertson’s experimental “Disordered,” which challenges conventional choreographic forms, and Tyreana Handley’s “Dark,” known for its dynamic, high-energy movements. Works like “like the moon” by Jordan Schonhoff and “Joy and Grief” by Sarah Gamblin investigate emotional and narrative elements in dance.
In addition to the performances, the concert serves as a platform for students and faculty to express unique cultural perspectives. “This Just Part of the Cycle” by Jailin Samuels explores African American experiences, while Ilse Mascorro’s “El Reggeatoneo Se Repite” delves into Mexican vernacular dance, showcasing the breadth and diversity present in the TWU dance curriculum.
The DanceMakers concert not only highlights the TWU Division of Dance’s vibrant community but also provides an opportunity for audiences to engage with innovative and reflective pieces. Tickets, essential for supporting the creative efforts at TWU, are available online.
