Dance season at ASU’s School of Film, Dance and Theatre kicks off with “Known and Unknown”

The School of Film, Dance and Theatre presents “Known and Unknown,” the kick-off event of the ASU dance season, featuring nine works created by an impressive roster of ASU faculty, musicians and local artists. Using a range of dance and media platforms, these imaginative artists venture into the worlds of science, perception and ritual.

The concert includes ASU premieres by faculty members Larry Caves, Mary Fitzgerald, John Mitchell, Jessica Rajko, Melissa Rex, Karen Schupp, Eileen Standley and Christian Ziegler. Joined by Datura and J.A.Movement performance media ensembles, sound/video artist Casey Farina and other local performers too numerous to mention, this show captures the full spectrum of contemporary dance offered at ASU.

“What is remarkable about this concert is the range of aesthetics presented, from highly experimental dance and media pieces to physically charged, Afro-Brazilian and Latin/ballroom fusions,” says Mary Fitzgerald, artistic director for Dance’s MainStage season. “I think this demonstrates some of the most current trends in the field and showcases the artistic breadth of the program.”

In addition to the works on stage, the evening includes pre-show, intermission and post-show film installations in the lobby and outside of the theatre, as well as a dance and media piece in the Dance Laboratory. Audience members are given an opportunity to see the works from an intimate perspective and engage with the artists informally throughout the evening.

“There really is something for everyone in this show,” Fitzgerald says. “Many of the pieces are inspired by complex scientific concepts, such as brain neurogenesis, perception and physics, while others celebrate the pure physicality of movement in high energy ensemble works. The rich collaborations between choreographers, dancers, musicians and filmmakers take the concert to an entirely different level of creativity.”

Also new this year is a suite of Latin and ballroom ensemble pieces directed by senior lecturer Larry Caves. Cast members will lead adventurous audience members in a social dance class at the reception on opening night.

Galvin Theatre, behind the ASU Art Museum, W. 10th and Mill Ave.
Sept. 26: 6:30 p.m.
Sept. 27: 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 28: 2 p.m.

Ticket prices: 
$16–General; $12–ASU Faculty, Staff + Alumni; $12–Senior; $8–Student
Special discount: $5 admission for high school students (please bring ID)