UA’s Alabama Repertory Dance Theatre Concert Showcases Mix of Traditional Styles and Cutting-edge Choreography

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama’s department of theatre and dance presents the Alabama Repertory Dance Theatre’s fall concert at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11-Thursday, Nov. 13, and 5:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, in Morgan Auditorium on Colonial Drive in the UA Theatre District.

This year’s fall concert, performed by members of the university dance program, features “Salute!” a tribute to America choreographed by faculty member Rita Snyder and set to the music of John Philip Sousa. Also included is Cornelius Carter’s piece “Men Dancing.” Moving away from more traditional work, faculty member Sarah Barry is presenting a modern-industrial piece titled “Mass Production.”

The concert will also showcase works by two choreographers new to UA. Joining the faculty this fall is Ping Guo, assistant professor of dance. Winner of a gold medal at the 7th France International Ballet Competition, Guo has also served as a coach to ballet students, many of whom have gone on to win gold and silver medals at international and national ballet competitions.

Also featured in this year’s program is work by guest choreographer Alicia Okouchi-Guy from Chapman University in Southern California. Okouchi-Guy is a professional chorographer for television, films, video, tours, commercials and NBA and NFL pro dance teams. Her credits also include work with Prince, Paula Abdu and MTV Networks. She has also performed in original works by choreographers Donald McKayle and Laura Dean.

Tickets are $15 for adults ($13 plus $2 service charge), $13 for UA faculty, staff and senior citizens ($11 plus $2), and $10 for students ($8 plus $2). Tickets can be bought at the box office in Rowand-Johnson Hall from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, by visiting www.crimsonartstickets.com, or by phoning 205/348-3400.

The department of theatre and dance is a part of UA’s College of Arts and Sciences, the University’s largest division and the largest liberal arts college in the state. Students from the College have won numerous national awards including Rhodes Scholarships, Goldwater Scholarships and memberships on the USA Today Academic All American Team.