Axe ’Em, Jacks!
NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Stephen F. Austin State University’s dance program will livestream senior choreographic works during its production of “Danceworks: Origins” at 7 p.m. April 8 through 9 and 3 p.m. April 10.
“The theme of the concerts came from a wide array of research topics,” said Heather Samuelson, dance program coordinator and assistant professor in SFA’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Science. “This is one of the most diverse productions the senior choreographers have crafted.”
The spring Danceworks concerts feature Chinese dance forms, African tribal dance forms and Irish step. They also explore a wide range of topics.
“It’s challenging to present such a personal topic to the public,” said Samantha Lindsey, a dance senior from Houston, who focused on psychiatric treatment in the 1960s for her contemporary modern production. “This experience has taught me to trust myself and to have confidence in my work.”
Skyler Morgan, a dance senior from Mount Pleasant, choreographed a contemporary modern work on the psychological spectrum of introvert versus extrovert and how they interact. She said she also learned a lot from her participation in Danceworks, especially during the challenges presented by the pandemic and severe weather this semester.
“Trust the process and be patient,” Morgan said.
Unlike past years, only the performers’ immediate family members may attend the concerts in person in the HPE Complex, Room 201, because of COVID-19 guidelines.
Students, faculty, staff and the public can watch online by donating in any amount at sfasu.edu/danceworks. Donors will receive an email the week of the performances containing the livestream link.
“Normally, the revenue we generate from ticket sales funds the next Danceworks performance,” Samuelson said. “Because in-person attendance is greatly limited this year, we’re asking the public to help us support the future growth and success of these students.”
Danceworks serves as the capstone course for dance seniors and features 10 choreographic works.
“The production teaches students a variety of skills other than choreography,” Samuelson said. “Students learn how to cast a show, promote a performance, design lighting, select costumes and edit music.”
For more information, email Samuelson at samuelsoh@sfasu.edu.