Infusing technology into dance, Neos Dance Theatre’s “Media and Movement” — Friday, March 11, at 8 p.m. the Akron Civic Theatre — combines imagery and animation by Emmy Award-winning artist Andy Gardner, two world premieres, and new film featuring an array of local residents.
“Big and bold, Media and Movement meshes perfectly with Akron’s growing embrace of indie films,” said Neos artistic director and co-founder Bobby Wesner, pointing to The Nightlight cinema. “This is a daring and edgy approach to dance, and I believe that people will love it once they see it.”
The program is also “Knight-centric,” added Wesner, explaining that the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has provided funding over the past three years for all four works on “Media and Movement.”
The four works include the world premieres of “Illustrious Disillusion,” choreographed by Wesner, and “Nothing in Particular” by Neos’ resident choreographer Mary-Elizabeth Fenn; “Suite for String,” choreographed by Joseph Morrissey; and “Flight,” choreographed by Penny Saunders.
“By blending contemporary dance and the visual arts, this innovative work offers a uniquely immersive audience experience, and brings an international trend in theatre to Akron audiences,” said Victoria Rogers, vice president for arts at the Knight Foundation. Victoria is speaking of the two World Premieres slated for this performance.
Guest dancer Pablo Sanchez, presently a freelance dancer from Chicago and recently with Rochester City Ballet, the Atlanta and Joffrey ballets, will join Neos’ resident dancers.
Additional funding for several of the works comes from the Akron Community Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, and The University of Akron School of Dance, Theatre, and Arts Administration.
Tickets for Media and Movement are $25 for general seating and $10 student and children 1 to 12 years old, are and are available at the Akron Civic Theatre Box Office, by calling (330) 253-2488 or online at www.akroncivic.com, or TicketMaster (1-800-745-3000). Tickets are on sale now.
Please note that this performance is rated PG-13 for suggested nudity and language.
The full schedule is available at www.akroncivic.com. Additional events will be added throughout the season. Tickets and information are available in person at The Civic Box Office or by calling (330) 253-2488.
