Beyond artistic expression, dance can serve as a means of storytelling.
In 2007, dancer and choreographer Jon Lehrer contrived his dance visions and founded LehrerDance, a modern dance company that entertains audiences and broadens the horizons of dance aesthetics. The dance company performed at the CFA on Saturday and Sunday to the delight of many attendees.
The modern dance that was presented infused expressive storytelling with a wide range of emotions to the audience. The familiar experiences and themes depicted in the dances are portrayed both artistically and athletically, allowing the audience to interpret the performances in light of their own life experiences.
LehrerDance took the stage with "Alliance," a piece whose heavily percussive music invoked a tribal feel and allowed for hard-hitting movements.
After the dynamic start to the show, the company took turns dancing in pairs, encircling the spotlight that shone on stage. Working in silence, the duos maintained the rhythmic pulse that the beginning of the number instilled, adding powerful lifts to show the strength of the performance.
The storytelling aspect was brought to life intrinsically in the number "SuperZeroes," where two dancers appeared on stage in bright, neon spandex outfits representing superheroes. The piece portrayed sibling rivalry between the "superzeroes" through arguments and stage fighting. Amongst all the commotion, the mother of the family appeared on stage to break up the confrontations. Throughout the dance she bore another child, adding another sibling into the contention.
Slow motion fighting provided the aspect of a dysfunctional superhero family through humor. The athleticism that the dancers maintained to perform the intensive lifts and stances impressed the audience.
The remarkable dexterity aside, LehrerDance provided a wide variety of elements and creativity to the eight dances, imbuing different themes and stories throughout. The company premiered newer dances and returned with classic creations, bringing Jon Lehrer's constantly evolving vision to the stage.
Set to the music of Paul Simon, "Bridge and Tunnel" presented a light-hearted, carefree feel, evoking childhood nostalgia throughout the audience. A colorful portrayal of a schoolyard atmosphere was presented as the cheerful music was reflected in the dance, and childhood camaraderie was represented on stage.
The schoolyard vibes were complete with a dance battle on stage with different groups cheering on their friends.
"It was just serenity and strength," said Bonnie Ross-Stefanie, 59, of Amherst. "It was magnificent. I just love the whole thing; it flowed, it was beautiful."
The dance spectacular ended with "A Ritual Dynamic." The entire dance company came together in an act of unity through dance, and the passion provided a memorable last impression of the show.
Email: arts@ubspectrum.com
