The department of theatre and dance has come a long way in the last three decades, and the Zodiaque Dance Company is undeniable proof.
From the company's first days situated uncomfortably in Norton Hall, to its current home in the Center for the Arts, Zodiaque now celebrates its 30th anniversary with a very special production.
Alumni, professors, students and their families gathered Saturday evening for an emotional reunion. A special performance of the company's current production, "Celebration 30," which features choreography by guest alumni, followed a special awards ceremony and reception held in the Drama Theatre.
While the department honored a handful of professional dancers and choreographers with a Distinguished Alumni Award, those in the community who serve as contributors to UB's dance program were presented with a Directors' Award.
Among some of the honorees were Zodiaque founder, and creator of UB's dance program, Linda Homeyer Swiniuch. UB President William R. Greiner presented Swiniuch with a plaque.
"You left a great legacy," Greiner said.
After the reception, a special performance of "Celebration 30" took place, offering a wide array of talent from years past and present.
Beginning the show was "In Great Deeds," created by Jody Dombrowski. A mixture of modern and lyrical styles that flowed softly, the performance included whimsical costumes that reflected the 19th century.
The questioning of love and death in the opening performance was broken up by the only lighthearted piece of the evening, a country-style hoedown with hokey choreography and playful dialogue that entertained but did not impress. Not fully capturing the dancers' talents and technique, the costumes were the most captivating element in this piece.
Jessica Rake, a sophomore dance major who enjoyed performing in Sheri Celentano's piece - a flowing performance entitled "Steel Petals" - was not weighed down by the additional pressure of having a distinguished audience. She felt their presence was only beneficial.
"We could feel the energy through everybody. They know what we were going through so it just made it that much more fun," Celantano said.
The technique and athleticism of the performers were evident in Anthony Calucci's "Drums of Defiance." A barbarian-like and fierce dance effectively used props to create a tribal war.
Among the evening's special performances was a showcase of two alumni performances. Jeffry Denman, a Broadway performer who was in the original cast of "The Producers," demonstrated his tap dancing talent, while Jon Lehrer showed off his muscular body in a sensual performance with a fellow dancer.
Lehrer, who traveled from his home in Chicago, Ill. where he is the associate director of Gus Giordano's Jazz Dance Chicago, said he was truly happy to be back in Buffalo.
"I love this place," Lehrer said. "This is more home to me than home."
Incorporating the different generations into this show was critical in representing all of the success and talent the department has developed over the years.
"The generations are important because each era has its own unique style and movement," said Angela Sauers, a senior dance major. "The way they interpret something may be different from you so it really opens your eyes."
Concluding the celebration of Zodiaque past, present and future, was a full-company finale. Traditional choreography by faculty members complemented a collection of photographs projected onto the backdrop.
According to Thomas P. Ralabate, director of Zodiaque and associate professor of theater and dance, "Celebration 30" is an important milestone in the company's tenure.
"This company is sustained by special people," said Ralabate.
"Celebration 30" continues through Nov. 23, with performances Thursday-Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $6 for students and seniors and $15 for the general public. They are available at the CFA box office and at all Ticketmaster locations.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
