Department of Dance

PURSUIT

November 14-16, 2024 @ 8 PM
Montague Dance Theater, GPAC

Sam Houston State University’s Department of Dance is thrilled to present PURSUIT an ensemble of dynamic choreography created by thirteen passionate dance artists in the 2024-2025 senior class. Together, they have created a concert full of inspiring storytelling, intricately curated visuals, and innovative works that speak to the nuances of human existence. With the program order varying nightly, the community will have multiple chances to experience diverse creations. Join us at the James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center Montague Dance Theater November 14-16, 2024, at 8 p.m. as dancers take the stage for an exhilarating night of collaboration

About the Dances

"Drained," an insightful new work by choreographer Ana Gonzalez in collaboration with dancers, delves into the profound stress and pressure that often accompany the pursuit of self-improvement. This thought-provoking performance adeptly captures the internal struggle of aspiring to be better while confronting the debilitating exhaustion that such expectations can engender. Through a rich tapestry of contemporary-based movement, "Drained" illustrates how societal demands can lead to psychological spirals and emotional distress. This compelling dance invites audiences to engage with the complexities of personal growth and reflect on the toll that relentless self-improvement can take on mental well-being.

“Internalized” by Brooke Liu is a dance about the experience of self-manipulation. Through three individualized stories, the uncovering of ways to fight against conflicting thoughts in one’s mind are revealed. As the individuals push back against the thoughts and continue to get beaten down, they eventually seek comfort in each other after breaking free. In unity they develop a sense of community and learn to lean on each other instead of tackling life alone.

Have you ever wondered why we dream? “Innerbloom,” choreographed by Kaitlyn Lopez, explores the experience of falling asleep. Three dancers lead the audience through a journey of dreams in a moody and intentional escape from reality.

"Sincerely, The Empress," a new choreographic work by Paige Hall, explores the transformative power of feminine energy through the lens of the Empress tarot card. This captivating dance for six celebrates the duality of the feminine spirit—inviting the audience to engage with their own journeys of self-discovery. “Sincerely, The Empress” is an invitation to reflect on the complexities of nurturing power and how it can elevate us while also revealing our vulnerabilities. Join us as we honor the raw beauty of feminine energy and the wisdom it brings to our lives.

In Annah Lee’s newest choreographic work, “Exiled from Grace”, a lone dancer embodies the inner soul, struggling with the mental torment of being disowned by her family due to her identity. Surrounding her are six dancers, representing her inner thoughts and guardian angels, each pulling her between despair and resilience. As the dance unfolds, the soul grapples with isolation, shame, and truth, while the angels try to guide her toward acceptance and inner peace. The choreography mirrors the turbulent inner conflict, blending moments of tension and grace as she battles for self-understanding and freedom.

A lack of introspection produces cognitive distortion in Madilyn Mudd’s newest dance, “I Can’t Keep Giving.” Through themes of internal and external frustration, arrested development, repetitional conflict, personalization, and provocation, five dancers continuously attempt to metaphorically tranquillize a person exhibiting a lack of self-control. What happens when irrational thought patterns affect your ability to understand someone or even yourself?

"Light in the Darkness," is a compelling dance performance choreographed by Gabrielle Robles. This choreographic work explores the dualities of divine love and human struggle by illustrating our universal longing for connection in a fractured world. Inspired by 1 John 4:19, this work involves a blend of dynamic movements to reflect our shared journey of faith and doubt. Robles is inviting both religious and non-religious audiences to connect and embrace their common humanity. Don’t miss this opportunity to inspire the community, as we celebrate love that transcends differences.

In honor of his late grandfather, Jordi Aloma-Canals, Aidan Aloma will premiere “Jordi”, a stirring work set to Pink Floyd's "Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Pts 1-5)." Motivated by a heartfelt note his grandfather wrote, the piece reflects on themes of personal growth, community, and self-care. With six dancers, the exuberant work explores the emotional journey of loss, legacy, and love, using movement and musicality as a tribute. The dancers evoke Jordi's spirit, merging visual references from Pink Floyd's iconic “Wish You Were Here” album with the essence of his life.

Dive into the underworld of organized crime with "Bluff," a new drama-based dance work by Jules Powers Devine that illustrates the trials and tribulations of a mafia facing an internal crisis. As tensions rise and trust erodes, the six dancers embody the narrative of false accusations and suspicions, as they attempt to uncover the identity of a mole within their ranks. This story unravels through quick, engaging choreography and theatrical elements. Will loyalty prevail, or will betrayal tear them apart?

Alyson Pennington presents “Beauty of Desiderium,” an evocative production exploring the intricate and often tumultuous emotions that accompany the highs and lows of love and loss. In “Beauty of Desiderium,” Pennington combines athletic and balletic inspired movement, along with emotional storytelling, to illustrate the duality of love and its capacity to uplift and unravel. The ensemble of six dancers takes the audience on an emotional journey, exploring the peace, acceptance, and mutual appreciation that can be found after the devastating loss of separation. Through this work, Pennington aims to reflect on the beauty that can arise from our deepest heartaches.

Each day we navigate the delicate balance between who we are becoming and who we once were. In "Echos of becoming," choreographer Jasmin Velasquez explores how the tension between personal growth and past experiences shapes every decision, as old memories and lessons resurface in unexpected ways. While some moments pull them back into patterns long outgrown, other propel them forward, forcing an internal reckoning. This constant push and pull is the heart of human evolution- where transformation meets the shadows of the past.

Jocelyn LaForte presents “unwi//ed”, a dance that explores the journey of vulnerability and emotional openness. Through visceral movement against eerie soundscapes, this work invites the audience to connect with the dancer’s raw life experiences through movement. The dance unfolds in a shadowy atmosphere, enhancing the emotions conveyed onstage. Viewing the dance from within, it seeks to resonate with personal experiences of pain, creating a shared space of intuitive connection.

Kaili Stephenson’s dance piece, “A Train Ride to Fate,” draws inspiration from the world of Studio Ghibli films. This contemporary work invites the audience to explore human connections and interdependence through the movements of seven dancers. Inspired by Hayao Miyazaki's vision, the choreography embodies a relationship where mutual inspiration fosters a desire to live and thus, a deeper appreciation of love. This dance invites the audience to embark on a moving journey alongside the dancers, celebrating the beauty of connection and shared experiences through their captivating movement.

DETAILS:

PURSUIT
James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center, Montague Dance Theater
815 17^th Street, Huntsville TX
November 14-16, 2024 @ 8 pm
Tickets: Visit www.shsu.edu/boxoffice or call 936-294-2339 for more info.
Program order varies nightly

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