UCO’s Kaleidoscope Dance Company Presents Fall Concert in Honor of Jill Priest, Nov. 21-23
Oct. 31, 2024
The University of Central Oklahoma Department of Dance will present the Kaleidoscope Dance Company’s fall concert at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 21-23, in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus. This year’s concert holds special significance, including “Roots in Red Dirt,” a piece choreographed by the late Jill Priest, former dance faculty member and assistant dean of the College of Fine Arts and Design.
Choreographed in 2008, “Roots in Red Dirt” explores the story of Priest’s family and their journey to settle in Oklahoma, reflecting her passion for storytelling through movement and her deep connection to her home state. The tribute performance will feature members of the Kaleidoscope Dance Company alongside alumni Alexander Olivieri, M.F.A., UCO assistant professor of dance, and Gildas Lemonnier, guest performer, to honor Priest’s impact on UCO and her profound love of dance.
“Jill’s contributions to our department and support for her students and colleagues were unparalleled,” said Tina Kambour, lecturer and artistic director of the Kaleidoscope Dance Company.
“We’re honored to bring her work to the stage once more and to share the beauty and meaning of her choreography with our community.”
The concert will also feature original works by UCO faculty members, including Kambour; Michelle Moeller, M.F.A., chair and professor; Hui Cha Poos, instructor; and, adjunct instructors Kyera Fitzgerald and Kim Loveridge.
Renowned guest choreographers Mike Esperanza, from New York City; Taryn Vander Hoop, from Los Angeles; Harper Harris, from Oklahoma City; and UCO alumnus Nate Tylor, from Oklahoma City, will also contribute, bringing a rich blend of dance styles such as modern, hip-hop, jazz and musical theatre to the stage.
The Kaleidoscope Dance Company includes 19 talented students and the junior company, KD2, adds 22 dancers to the program. Both groups have dedicated extensive time and effort to bring this meaningful performance to life.
Tickets start at $10 for non-UCO students and are $20 for adults. Central students receive one free ticket with a valid UCO ID.
To purchase tickets, visit go.uco.edu/CFAD-tickets or call 405-974-3375.
For a complete listing of UCO College of Fine Arts and Design events and performances, visit cfad.uco.edu.
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Cutline: The University of Central Oklahoma’s Kaleidoscope Dance Company will present its fall concert at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 21-23, in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus. Pictured, four Kaleidoscope Dance Company members perform on stage.
Scott Hale