The final piece of the puzzle
Erika Wilkins
Spectrum Editor
Beginning Thursday, April 29 at 8 p.m., the department of dance and choreography will present its spring senior dance project “PIECES,” at the Grace Street Theater.
“PIECES” brings to fruition a hodgepodge of life experiences via senior dancers Felix Cruz, Nicole Buggé, Mary Kelleher, Tiffany McKinley and Tiffany Jones. Taking the “pieces” of their disjointed lives, marrying them and creating a masterwork of senior thesis has been a process that has utilized the creative process of each dancer, no matter their involvement.
Buggé and Kelleher will present dances choreographed by Willie Hinton and Salvatore Aiello. Cruz, McKinley and Jones have each choreographed dances, which they also star in.
“Choreographing is a tedious process that many non-dancers just don’t understand. It’s not just about throwing on some music and putting people out into the space. One must go about creating a dance just like they would a book. There’s a lot of exploring, investigating, and messing up before you make a good piece,” Jones said.
Performance major Nicole Buggé will perform the solo “Echoes” by Aiello. The piece is emotionally centered on a woman in turmoil and pits classical music against contemporary pointe.
In addition to dancing, the seniors are responsible for the technical presentation of the show.
“As the presenters of the concert we are in charge of every aspect from promotion, to marketing, to advertising, etc. Led by two faculty members, we are guided through the process, culminating in a weekend of performances. “Pieces” is unique in the sense that it includes two performance concentration students, myself and Mary, presenting solos, and the other three presenting their own choreography,” said Buggé.
“PIECES” is showing Thursday, Friday & Saturday, April 29, 30 and May 1 at 8 p.m. The Grace Street Theater is located at 934 W. Grace St. Tickets are $10 for the general public, $5 for students with a valid VCU I.D. and can be reserved by calling 804-828-2020.
