MISSOULA – Although the COVID-19 pandemic derailed the “Dance Up Close” production at the University of Montana, the School of Theatre and Dance will offer an online opening night for the event today, Thursday, April 30.
Instead of a live performance, join the Dance Program online to view artist statements and celebrate virtual dance during this time of social distancing. Snapshots of dances intended to be completed and performed this week are online at https://thenextmoveum.wixsite.com/thenextmove.
“This virtual celebration of ‘Dance Up Close’ allows viewers yet another close-up view of the artistic voice of UM dance students,” dance Professor Michele Antonioli said.
The online site offers brief introductions of multiple student choreographers and their artistic dreams, goals and visions for the production, which would have been the final event of the school’s current season.
Produced by dance Professors Antonioli and Karen Kaufmann, “Dance Up Close” would have included four performances for the public.
A highlight of the UM school’s season, this annual showcase provides audiences with a chance to see new, original work of emerging and established dance artists in an intimate setting and gives developing designers the opportunity to collaborate with those dancers.
This year’s event was to feature 16 new and diverse works choreographed by dance majors and Master of Fine Arts acting candidate Elijah Fisher.
###
Contact: Michele Antonioli, professor, UM School of Theatre and Dance, 406-214-9766, michele.antonioli@umontana.edu.