Pics: Mark Morris Dance Group intertwines, rehearsesText and photos by Ariel Soto
Smiling dancers spun across the stage wearing neon bright pep-band uniforms. Classical music from a live ensemble kept the dancer's movements fluid and true. It was the last rehearsal before opening night at Zellerbach Hall (as part of Cal Performances) for the Mark Morris Dance Group, who will be premiering two new pieces on the West Coast, entitled "Visitation" and "Empire Garden" this coming weekend.
"Visitation," which is set to Beethoven's Sonata for Piano and Cello No 4, Op. 102, No 1, brought nine dancers to the stage where they worked together to form intertwining loops, while constantly supporting each others actions. A sense of love and collaboration between the dancers seemed to be cultivated by each of their movements, while still giving the dancers a chance to show off their individuality.
By contrast, the combination of the costumes and the music in "Empire Garden," set to Ives' Trio for Violin, Cello, and Piano, evoked images of armory and regiments, making for a dichotomy of emotions and ideas to form after watching the two performances. There are only three shows between now and Sunday, so don't miss the chance to see this truly unique and gorgeous production.
Mark Morris Dance Group
Thu/17, Sat/19, Sun/20
various times and prices
Zellerbach Hall
UC Berkeley Campus
www.calperformances.org
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