It was a superior performance with a broad range of styles, though most centered on jazz and modern. By mid point, Ms. Brodie's distinctive choreography was apparent. Graceful arm movement with extended lines added a dreamlike quality to many pieces. Particularly noteworthy was Madam Meets the Dragon, which captured the essence of Chinese dance with grace, power and beauty.
Stunning performances by Contreras, Ferguson, Gonzalez and Murillo in Fuerza, choreographed by Javier Gonzalez, produced a piece which was masculine, strong, powerful, and danced with near perfect, precise, energy. Dos Pactos, choreographed by Ismael Murillo and danced by him and his partner Cristina Kole, echoed this strength, demonstrated control, and illustrated the results of many years of hard work and training.
A few pieces reminded one that these are largely still students, learning and honing their craft. This was particularly evident in Le Village Africain, a stirring piece with eclectic choreography by Kelly Ray and music by Madou Djembe. Unfortunately, the dancers were frequently off beat, and for most of the performance lacked grounding (body weight "up" when it should have been "down"), strength and power, required elements of African dance.
Volaron Las Calandrias, choreographed by Murillo, was an exciting piece, filled with energy and enthusiasm, flawlessly danced in traditional Spanish costume by Angela Beutel, Teylor Caesar, Teresa Rios, Christina Morley, and Anan Yu (who also danced lead in Madame Meets the Dragon.) The choreography of Volaron instantly transported you to Madrid or perhaps Mexico City, leaving the mundane world behind. A Bit of Waltz Time choreographed by Brodie, similarly lifted ones spirits, transporting one into another dreamlike world of peace and beauty.
**Huntington Beach, California
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