Setting Sail with Mikhail

Another exciting semester is in store for students and the community alike, as the Center for the Arts presents its Key Bank Dance Series, highlighted by legendary Russian ballet dancer, Mikhail Baryshnikov.

Playing host to a vast collection of renowned performers for the past nine seasons, the CFA is no stranger to world-class entertainment. Those who live for dance will have no fewer than five world-renowned dance performances.

Starting his career in 1963 at the age of 15, Baryshnikov has been heralded for his remarkable stage presence and precise technical ability. As a famous ballet dancer, he has been among the most influential names in dance for decades.

"Baryshnikov has obviously had a huge impact on the dance community for a longtime in so many different ways," said sophomore dance major Lauren Nelson. "He's not only got great technique in classical dance but he also has the ability to embrace other forms as well."

Dancing to everything from Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake" to the patter of his own feet, he has also thrived as both a choreographer and actor throughout his illustrious career. Debuting as an actor/dancer in "The Turning Point," he is currently featured in the final season of HBO's "Sex and the City."

According to Dave Wedekindt, marketing director of the CFA, Baryshnikov - at the age of 55 - is embarking on an international solo tour with a diverse repertoire. The broad range of choreographers will match the wide array music - from Alban Berg's Sonata for Piano Op. 1 to the Beatles.

"It's a rarity that he is doing this tour. It was too special of an event to pass up," said Wedekindt. "The music ranges so it will be more of a pop program but varied."

The CFA will be presenting "Solos with Piano or not...An Evening of Music and Dance with Mikhail Baryshnikov and Pianist Pedja Muzijevic" on Jan. 30 and 31 on the Mainstage. Discounted student tickets are available for $20 for students for the Jan. 31 performance only.

Dancing their way back onto the Mainstage after an October 2000 performance is Garth Fagan Dance, appearing on the Mainstage on Feb. 6. With an all-new program, the distinctive movement of Fagan dancers comes to Buffalo from nearby Rochester.

According to Gretchen Blynt, a senior dance and English major, seeing a new program is what inspires her to improve.

"Every time I see a new show, it gives me a new outlook," said Blynt. "Just having them here again gives me something more to work on"

Under the direction of the Tony Award-winning choreographer of Broadway's "The Lion King," Garth Fagan's company will be celebrating its 33rd anniversary season. Known for their individuality and concentrated movements, their performance will feature pieces from Fagan's applauded "Griot New York" as well as "Translation Translation."

Exploding with dimension, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago brings their rhythm to the Mainstage on March 5. Led by founder and Emmy Award-winner Gus Giordano and artistic director Nan Giordano, the company has made jazz dance an internationally identifiable American art form.

"I am looking forward to Jazz Dance Chicago because they made jazz what it is today" said Nelson. "I think that seeing the company who has really made jazz dance an American art form will be the most special to me."

Bringing the essence of modern dance to the Mainstage is the Martha Graham Dance Ensemble on April 3, who will bring their craft to the stage after spending a wek with the department of theater and dance as part of their annual residency program. Dancers and directors from the group will work with students during that week, offering lectures and master classes.

According to Lynne Kurdziel-Formato, director of musical theater for the department of theater and dance, Graham is one of the most influential and respected artists of the 20th century.

"Students learn about her in their classes, in every history book. She is considered to be one of the Mothers of modern dance," said Kurdziel-Formato. "She has influenced so many people to create their own style of dance. It continues to grow and shape the face of modern dance."

Taking the final bow for the Key Bank Dance Series is the Moscow Festival Ballet's performance of "Swan Lake." As a young but highly regarded company under the direction of Sergei Radchenko, they have gained world recognition and acclaim. The company of 50 will be taking the Mainstage on April 20 with a fairytale performance.

Discounted student tickets may be available for certain performances. Tickets for all events are available at the CFA box office, all Ticketmaster locations and online at www.ticketmaster.com.