Blending influences, genres and art forms, the 44th annual Dance Montage brings together the University of Calgary dance community on Nov. 21–23.
Beginning in 1969, Dance Montage offers a unique experience for dancers and choreographers to explore the art of dance in new ways. This year, there are 10 different pieces choreographed by members of U of C’s dance community.
“It is a way for anybody to get exposed to dance, which can sometimes seem mystic or misunderstood,” says contemporary dance student Rufi O Rodriguez, who choreographed a cha-cha influenced by contemporary dance and physical theatre named “Cha-ching.”
“Some people view dance with an eyebrow raised, but because of the energy and the diversity of all of the different dance forms Dance Montage is a place to get a taste of the many different types of dance that are out there,” Rodriguez says.
Business and dance graduate and choreographer Tony Tran designed a montage influenced by the urban dance scenes of New York and Chicago titled “Can You Feel It?” Tran said that the community aspect of Dance Montage makes it all the more important.
“It’s not just students from the university participating, but people from all walks of life — different ages, different backgrounds,” Tran says. “It’s not just a show, it’s a place of gathering for arts and dance.”
Dance Montage is at the University Theatre nightly at 8 p.m. as well as at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are $10 for students.