Dance Company to celebrate 35th anniversary at new theatre
The Repertory Dance Theatre will perform a variety of modern dance pieces in celebration of its 35th anniversary of choreographing, collecting dance pieces and performing since 1966.
The evening will include duets with pieces narrated from 1953 to 1998, said Elaine Clark, director of public relations and marketing for the group.
RDT was founded by Virginia Tanner, whose vision eventually led to creation of the first modern dance repertory company, Clark said.
“We’re still here in 2001, [which] proves the vitality of interest in dance,” Clark said.
The show, titled “Souvenir,” will open with computer images meshed with dancing in “Faces.” The piece includes portraits and video projections that allow the audience to meet the real life-blood of RDT … its dancers, Clark said.
Both creativity of its company members and art of choreography will be honored by presenting a long-time company member, Jim Moreno’s, “View.” The conclusion of the evening will be packed with energy, imagination and joy with the Utah premiere of Susan Hadley’s “Blue Grass,” Clark said.
“This jubilation for life is very fitting as we perform in the new Jeanne Wagner Theatre and begin a new chapter in the life of Repertory Dance Theatre,” said Director Linda C. Smith.
Souvenir will be the first public performance in the newly built Jeanné Wagner Theater at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, 138 W. 300 South in Salt Lake City. Performances will be at 8 p.m. April 5 through 8, with a matinee April 8 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15; discounts are available for students and seniors. Tickets are available by calling ArtTix at (801) 355-2787.
In addition to the concert, RDT will hold a “Birthday Party” in the New Rose Room of the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center April 6 following the performance. Tickets are $35, available through ArtTix.
April 7, Claidia Sisemore, a filmmaker, will screen the director’s cut of her documentary “RDT: A Bold Experiment,” at the Rose Room at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center. Admission is $10, or free with purchase of tickets to the concert or reception.