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| Passion at Play, Indeed |
| Written by Ryan E. Johnson | |
 Photo: Amitava Sarkar American Repertory Ensemble premieres a monumental new work. A visionary evening of music, dance, and beauty awaits as the American Repertory Ensemble and artistic director David Justin present their latest production, Passion at Play. This globetrotting journey features some of the best dancers across the United States, from New York to San Francisco, and original music by the highly lauded Michael Torke. The performance will be running this weekend only in the McCullough Theater on the University of Texas campus. The groundbreaking American Repertory Ensemble was founded in Austin by choreographer David Justin and composer/conductor Rob Deemer, and is based upon the idea of wholly integrating the world of music with the world of dance, while most companies usually focus on one or the other. Rather than showcase dancers while the musicians are on the sidelines, or having a large symphony with a few dancers, the work of the American Repertory Ensemble believes they should come together to share the stage in an equal partnership. Since its debut in 2006, the ensemble has received numerous accolades, including 15 Austin Critics Table nominations. Earlier this month ARE received rave reviews at Houston’s Big Range Dance Festival. Things look even better coming into their newest production.Composer Michael Torke’s original music promises to show us images from around the world, from the alcoves of romantic Spanish villas to the stately coasts of England. From the jazz-influenced styling of the vibrant and stylish “Speed Dial,” to the elegancy of “The Dance House,” and even David Justin's American variation on the classic “"L'Apres-midi d'un Faune," you’re bound to be swept away by the magic and wonder of these creations.  The music, performed by Austin-based, world-class musicians, is only half the fun. A premier group of dancers have chosen to grace the Austin stage, including internationally renowned Tina LeBlanc and Joan Boada from the San Francisco Ballet, Michelle Gifford from the New York City Ballet, Anna Laghezza of Miami City Ballet, Griff Braun and Eric Otto from the American Ballet Theatre and Laura Feig, who recently completed work on Twyla Tharp’s award-winning production Movin’ Out. For those looking to introduce a third art form into the evening, ARE has partnered with Vin Bistro to add additional entertainment. “Inspire Your Passion” is a pre-show event, starting at 5:30 on Friday at Vin Bistro, featuring wines selected by Vin Bistro’s own sommelier to help compliment the experience, along with delectable hors d’oeuvres to whet your appetite for the show to come. The experience also adds the opportunity to hobnob with ARE Artistic Director David Justin and many of the night’s performers. It’s a delicious way to get yourself ready for a great night of art and beauty. For those wishing to take things a bit further, ARE and Vin Bistro present the “Seriously Passionate Event” before the Saturday performance. This also features wine specifically selected by Bistro’s sommelier to compliment the evening’s festivities, and the chance to meet and chat with artistic director David Justin and company, but they’ve upped the ante on the culinary portion. Here, you’ll also be treated to a five-course meal focusing on foods from the regions presented in the performance. Passion at Play is on stage for one weekend only, so make sure you don’t miss it. Whether you’re in the mood for some high culture, some dazzling entertainment, or just a chance to show your date how suave you are, this event is sure to be a night to remember. Tickets can be purchased through the American Repertory Ensemble or at the door for $25 (students and seniors, $15; under12, $10). Friday’s “Inspire Your Passion” is $65 (includes theater ticket), and Saturday’s “Seriously Passionate Event” is $150 (includes theater ticket). |
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