~ By Miguel Gastelum, communications specialist for University Theatre
Contemporary Dance Ensemble will present its eighth annual spring production, “Epistêmê,” running from Feb. 16 to Feb. 24 in the John Wright Theatre in the Speech Arts building at Fresno State.
The production is a series of five new, original, contemporary dance works and one returning favorite, created specifically for the ensemble. Choreography is provided by Fresno State Theatre Arts professor Kenneth Balint, Fresno State dance major Nathalie Quiros and guest international dance artists and choreographers Janelle Paris and Anandha Ray.
“Epistêmê” is a philosophical term from Ancient Greek, which can refer to knowledge, science or understanding. The concert is centered around the ability of both the dancers’ and the audience members’ kinetic and cerebral understanding of what is really happening at the present moment.
The ensemble for “Epistêmê” consists of 15 Fresno State students committed to expression through dance and movement. The performance is a culmination of the Dance 163 course, which encourages students to develop an understanding of the art of dance by providing dance experiences, which have artistic as well as educational value.
These students are dedicated to the art form, commit to a demanding rehearsal schedule and participate in a variety of performance opportunities throughout the region.
“I am very honored to present these talented student artists as they premier five new dance works and one audience favorite from last year,” said Balint, artistic director of the Contemporary Dance Ensemble.
The dance ensemble includes; Christopher Ballesteros, Ashley Del Rio, Bryan Estrada, Caitlin Gainey, Sarah Holm, Mali Lee, Marissa Lopes, Madison Machado, Rachel Martinez, Kelsey Phillips, Nathalie Quiros, Sahar Shahnematollahi, Mony Souvannasack, Alyjha Tauscher and Georgia Wilson.
“Epistêmê” is the fourth show of University Theatre’s 2017-18 season.
Tickets are $17 for adults; $15 for Fresno State faculty, staff, alumni and military; and $10 for students. Group rates are available for parties of 20 or more. Box office hours are noon to 4 p.m. on weekdays and one hour before each performance.
Parking is free for shows on Friday through Sunday nights. For shows on Tuesday through Thursday nights, parking permits are required and can be purchased at dispensers in parking lots on campus.
For more information, contact the box office at 559.278.2216 or universitytheatre@csufresno.edu.
The College of Arts and Humanities at Fresno State 