WHITEWATER — Kelli Polnow, from Monroe, is among the students involved in the production of “DanceScapes ‘22” with the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Department of Theatre/Dance.
An annual audience favorite, this concert features works from UW-Whitewater faculty members, award-winning guest artist Li Chiao Ping, student choreographers Kayley Stoner and Teresa Krogmann, and for the very first time, a piece choreographed and performed by alumni. The event is a showcase of unique talent nurtured in UW-Whitewater studios.
Performances take place on March 12-13 at 2 p.m. and March 14-15 at 7:30 p.m. in Barnett Theatre. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased online at tickets.uww.edu or by calling 262-472-2222.
Polnow, who is studying Elementary Education, serves as a dancer in the production.
Barbara Grubel, professor of dance and artistic director of “DanceScapes ‘22” said, “I am so excited to have DanceScapes ‘22 return to live audiences. There’s something so organic about the relationships built between the audience and the dancers while they’re performing onstage — the energy is palpable in the room.”
“It was the perfect time to come back to UW-Whitewater and work in the studio,” said Elizabeth Szymczak ‘07. “As an alumna, I’m extremely grateful to have the opportunity to once again work with Barb, she is truly an asset to the entire institution. Working with other alums on this piece has been an engaging and collaborative experience. I’m excited to have audiences take in the work and hear about their viewing experience.”
Audiences may remember guest choreographer Li Chiao Ping from her work in “DanceScapes ‘21” — a dance for camera work in the virtual concert. This year’s piece is an adaptation of last year’s piece, working with UW-Whitewater students to transform her dance for camera work into one for the stage. Chiao Ping was named by Dance Magazine as one of “25 to watch,” makes work for the stage, screen, and other sites for individuals and organizations around the country. She has choreographed for musical theater, opera, and ballet, in addition to concert dance, dance theater, and screen dance.
On Sunday, March 13, a fundraising raffle will be held in conjunction with the performance. Beginning at 1 p.m., raffle items include a variety of gift certificates, products and more from area businesses. Attendance of the concert is not necessary to participate in the raffle. Proceeds will go directly towards sending UW-Whitewater students to the American College Dance Association Conference each year. During their attendance students are able to learn from other instructors throughout the region, perform selected works for attendees and view works from other choreographers in the region.
