SHSU Dance Alumni to return to perform, educate students

Dance students will have the chance to gain perspective into the world of professional dance when alumni return to the university for the Alumni Reunion Concert on Saturday.

Held in the Performing Arts Center dance theatre, the concert will feature 11 performances choreographed and performed by alumni of the dance program at SHSU.

Among the alumni set to be featured is Alicia Marie Carlin, who will perform an aerial piece titled "Farewell to Julie Bird", using silk fabric hanging from the ceiling.

Carlin has worked with Blue Lapis Light studio which utilizes different aerial equipment and techniques to perform off buildings.

Alum, Sharon Roberts, works with Inertia Dance Company from Westside High School who will perform a work tilted "Once Upon a Time…."

The group's performances mix different dance styles to bring something unique to the stage. Their dances have been performed all over the country in cities like Chicago, New York, New Orleans and abroad in China.

The event will be an all-day event that will include classes in jazz, modern and contemporary dance.

"ARC helps undergrads in some ways," Dana Nicolay, dance professor said.

"They get to meet people in the profession, listen to advice and network."

The first Alumni Reunion Concert was held in 1999 and serves as a platform for both alums to come back to their roots and for students to gain exposure to the professional world of dance, according to Nicolay.

"(The concert) represents a good opportunity for students to see what's going on around the country," Nicolay said.

"They alumni bring a different perspective to help bridge the gap from college to the real world of dance."

The PAC will be a new addition to the concert this year, which offers opportunities for the alums.

"We're expecting to have the doors blown out this year and the building is a big motivator for them (the alumni) to return," Nicolay said.

"They will get the chance to dance in a legitimate dance facility."

The Alumni Reunion Concert will begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 for students and $12 for the general public.

For more information, contact the PAC box office at 936-294-2339.