January 29-31, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
Emerson Black Box Theater
This year’s Winter Dance Concert highlights the creative voices of our sophomore and junior choreographers. Each pair has crafted original work and set it on their peers, resulting in thirteen unique pieces that move through humor, heartbreak, imagination, and joy. The program offers an intimate look at the artistry emerging within our program and invites audiences to experience a wide range of emotional and creative perspectives. Join us for three evenings in our three-sided black box theater, where you’ll be immersed in the action and seated up close to the performers as these young artists share the work they have built together.
This year’s Winter Dance Concert promises an evening of fresh perspectives and compelling performances that reflect the strength and vision of our developing choreographers.
Performances will take place at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts. Tickets are available now.
Interconnected Moments and Inner Worlds
“How Did We Get Here?” by Taylor Conard and Aubrey Lacavich
This thoughtful exploration of the butterfly effect considers how small choices ripple outward and influence relationships. The dancers move through accumulating phrases, repeated motifs, and slow-motion musical shifts, revealing the delicate reactions that shape our experiences with one another.
“subjectivity of self” by Jaelie Bott
An artist wanders through an exhibit filled with sorrowful works. As she studies each piece more closely, she begins to see the beauty within the pain. The choreography celebrates empathy, perspective, and the transformative power of art.
“how much longer?” by Julia Van Kalker
Julia Van Kalker offers an intimate portrayal of derealization and depersonalization. Movement stretches and distorts in ways that echo the sensation of drifting away from reality. The dancers show the disorienting distance between self, time, and the world when everything feels out of reach.
“Comic Relief (From Myself)” by Chloe Willis
A stand-up comedian begins to crumble under the pressure of imposter syndrome in this blend of storytelling and contemporary dance. Humor gradually gives way to vulnerability. The work invites the audience to see the human being behind the punchlines and the effort it takes to keep performing.
Healing, Holding, and Being Held
“Always Say ‘I Love You (Because You Never Know When It Will Be the Last Time)” by Emily Eveland
Through weighted partnering and quiet, deliberate gestures, this piece reflects on loss, memory, and the love a person continues to carry. The dancers navigate the shifting presence of grief and arrive at a tender sense of remembrance. The work encourages audiences to cherish every moment with the people they hold dear.
“how i’m feeling now” by Stephanie Mantooth
Raw and resonant movement shapes this exploration of the hidden labor of healing from trauma. Heavy, grounded phrases give form to the weight that often lingers long after an event has passed.
“Learning To Be Seen” by Sophie Gresham and Bailey Lamb
This heartfelt piece considers the courage it takes to let others witness the parts of ourselves we usually protect. As the dancers open up, they create moments of connection that show how vulnerability can allow joy, support, and understanding to enter our lives.
“The Weight You Carry” by Zoe Ervin and Alyssa Sims
The dancers reveal the invisible burdens that people hold within their daily lives. The choreography emphasizes connection and shared strength. Healing becomes possible when people support one another, and even heavy weights begin to feel lighter.
Humor, Joy, and Pure Performance
“Lighten the Mood” by Alexis Evans and Melyssa Hollon
This spirited jazz work blends grounded intensity with playful ease. Strong dynamics and rhythmic groove guide the dancers as they encourage the audience to relax and enjoy the moment.
“As is” by Kaitlyn Mack
A jazz and contemporary fusion celebrates movement for its own sake. The dancers follow musicality, emotion, and pure physical expression without the need for storyline or symbolism.
“In a clock tick” by Alette Joubert
This joyful pointe piece highlights clarity, elegance, and classical technique. Audiences will see adagio, allegro, and turns woven into a light and uplifting performance.
Storytelling and High Drama
“Praimfaya” by Lauren King
The last remaining people on Earth receive news that the world will end in four minutes. A genius, two generals, two soldiers, a couple, a martyr, and a spy find themselves inside a bunker, and the countdown begins. Intense storytelling unfolds as the characters confront fear, conflict, and the choices that define their final moments.
“the show must go on” by Katie Major
During the Golden Age of Hollywood, seven dancers portray actresses trying to rise to fame. The piece contrasts the glamour seen on camera with the harsh realities behind it. Despite the pressures they face, the performers must continue forward. The show, as always, must go on.
