Dance review: Unique journeys, themes explored through dance in 'Wading'

By Marissa Pendergrass
On-line Forty-Niner

"Wading," the fall thesis graduate dance concert held last weekend at the Martha B. Knoebel Theater offered a journey through the thoughts of the choreographers and dancers.

The concert consisted of six drastically different dance performances that each had its own theme and message.

Choreography by Sue Hogan in collaboration with the dancers in "Fun With Dick and Jane," used nostalgic costumes dating back to the 1950s, when suspenders, poor-boy caps and short shorts were all the rage. The unique steel hoopskirts designed by Sharon Busch that were worn by dancers in "Utopia." Choreographed by Heather Ahern the skirts were also used as props throughout the dance, which examined the different aspects of gender.

Choreographer William Lett used unique and intriguing lighting to enhance the dancers in his piece, "Beauty is…" I.  Let explored the battle with breast cancer, and incorporated partial female nudity. The non-sexual display of female breasts was beautifully presented and understood.

"Portrait of the World as a Mirror in Lead" captured the audiences' attention. Perhaps one of the most impressive performances, choreographer Filip Condeescu used the largest amount of dancers, elaborate costuming and outrageously bombastic choreography.

The Cal State Long Beach graduate dance concerts are known for its high level of talent and entertainment. "Wading," went above and beyond audience and department expectations.