in FOCUS: University Dancers 42nd Annual Concert

UR Free Theatre & Dance

Directed by Anne Van Gelder

University Dancers celebrates 42 years of engaging dance with our annual concert that brings to the University of Richmond the work of innovative guest artists.

Peter Chu provides a unique experience as he utilizes his experiences with Qigong, American jazz dance, commercial dance, and even cheerleading to create unique dance pieces. Charlotte Boye-Christensen’s collaborative work challenges perceptions of what defines dance, while not rejecting tradition. Boye-Christensen is the founder of NOW-ID, an interdisciplinary contemporary performance company known for its site-specific work and its commitment to inventing unique forms. Kara Wilkes’ choreographic style brings contemporary movement into dialogue with theatrical elements such as props, sets, and vocals. Aligning with the department’s mission, the creative work by Boye-Christensen, Chu, and Wilkes utilizes contemporary dance to educate and engage community.

The concert will also include new works choreographed by Department of Theatre & Dance faculty Angelica Burgos, Alicia Díaz, Eric Rivera, and Anne Van Gelder. Outstanding adjudicated student choreography will be featured and department faculty members Johann Stegmeir and Maja E. White will design costumes and lighting respectively. Do not miss these talented dancers performing in a variety of contemporary works.

The Department of Theatre & Dance offers a lineup of free performances, including black box productions, staged readings, dance concerts, and musicals. Each production brings together students, faculty, alumni, and guest artists, creating a collaborative space where audiences can connect, explore new perspectives, and experience engaging, live performance.

Free tickets available August 3.