The talented Complexions Contemporary Ballet brings a fluidity and colorful innovation to the art form of dance as the Company brings to life the celebration of their 25th Anniversary at the Joyce Theater, located at 175 Eighth Ave (19th St) in Manhattan. As they premiere “Woke” and “From Then to Now,” they revisit a compilation of 25 years of their repertory favorites which runs until March 3, 2019.
The show offered both Program A and B. Program A featured the dance company’s entire cast in movement to the music of violin and cello in honor of the Baroque composers. And due to popular demand its hit “Star Dust,” a ballet tribute to the music of David Bowie. The night I attended, I regaled in the performances of Program B which showcased dance numbers such as “From Then to Now, Rise, Spill, Choke, On Holiday, Testament and Woke, etc.
The remaining programs will be part of Program B held on Thursday, February 28, and Friday, March 1, at 8:00 pm and on Saturday, March 2nd there will be a matinee at 2pm and an evening program at 8pm. The final show on Sunday, March 3rd ends with a matinee at 2pm. Some of the dance routines will include excerpts from the classics “Rise” which features the music of U2 and another audience favorite The Grapes of Wrath. All matinee programs feature “Bach 25” and “From Then to Now.”
The night I attended the theater was packed and excitement wafted through the air like bolts of electricity. And no wonder, since Complexions founded as the first multicultural ballet company by Dwight Rhoden and co-founded by Artistic Director Desmond Richardson featured a splendid array of young dancers whose skills were in top form. The company has performed worldwide establishing a unique platform in contemporary dance. Monies earned from their gala held February 21 will aid in continuing their initiatives via mentorship programs and scholarships. The company’s educational outreach was offered in six cities this past year, allowing Complexions to train hundreds of new dancers. In receipt of several awards Complexions Contemporary Ballet was given the Critics Choice Award by the New York Times.
While I cannot name each amazing dancer I will name some of the stand out performers: Brandon Gray and Jillian Davis (a tall drink of water), Larissa Gerszke, Tatiana Melendez, Simon Plant, Tim Stickney and Craig Dionne. The entire cast members were outstanding in their efforts to combine the elements of contemporary dance through the expression of modern jazz, lyrical and classic ballet in a way that connected the mind and body through the splendor and beauty of a viscous flow of dance movements. Bravo to their artistry!
Tickets range from $10 to $66 and can be purchased online at www.Joyce.org. Also by phone by calling 212-242-0800.
