On April 17, Black Box Dance Theatre (BBDT) premiered their first Company Choreography Concert with six new works by Kate Gupton, Shadidja Parker, Michelle Pearson, Payton Chopp, Jill Guyton Nee, and Cortney Vartanian with dancers from the BBDT company, BBDT’s Extended Professional Community (EPC), and Meredith College.
Each piece was earnestly crafted, exceptionally rehearsed, and passionately performed. Themes of courage, identity, and interpersonal struggle were contemplated by the choreographers with both whimsy and solemnity, and despite observing unique choreographic voices from each artist, there was clear inspiration from modern and post-modern legends like Limon, Cunningham, and Twyla Tharp throughout the evening. This inaugural company choreography concert was a true celebration of the Raleigh dance community, and the distinct yet similarly-inspired movement lexicons were a testament to the company’s close-knit culture.
Logistically, the show ran tight. There was little downtime between pieces, and each lighting, music, and curtain cue was expertly executed thanks to the backstage crew, BBDT company members, and Michelle Pearson (Artistic Director) who could be seen adjusting the projector, mingling with guests, and leading with a smile.
While concert dance is an important part of BBDT, their biggest mission lies in veteran support, with the impact of this mission culminating into the feature documentary We Lift Each Other (free, one-night-only viewing on May 2 at the Rialto!). Through their passionate performance and continued work with veterans, BBDT reminded us this evening about the power of dance: to inspire, heal, and transform. ///
