by Monica Chamness
Staff Writer
Swirling and swaying their way into spring is a variety of local dance performances. Beginning with the FCCJ Artist Series production of “Aeros” March 26, a month of dance commences. “Aeros” is a blend of gymnastics and theater set to music. The rhythmic movements were coordinated by the creators of “Stomp” along with world-renowned choreographers Daniel Ezralow, David Parsons and Moses Pendleton.
Not the standard fare in the world of dance, “Aeros” employs medal-winning gymnasts to infuse humor, eroticism and athletics to a throbbing original score. The performance is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the T-U Center.
At the Florida Theatre, the Florida Ballet performs “Spectrum” at 7:30 p.m. March 29. Tickets are $10 and $20.
On April 4, Jacksonville University students will stage their yearly spring dance concert at 8 p.m. at the Florida Theatre. The show features original choreography by guest artists Peter Kalivas of the Sean Curran Dance Company, Dana Michaels from Art for Life Productions, Christian von Howard from Columbia College and nine dancers from Telford College in Edinburgh, Scotland. JU’s dance faculty will present some dance moves of their own. The concert includes ballet, jazz, tap and modern dance. Tickets are $12.50 and $9.50.
The Florida Ballet revives an old tradition April 22 and 24 with its Brown Bag Lunch Concerts. Patrons can bring their lunch to the upstairs studio at 123 E. Forsyth St. from 12:10-12:50 p.m. and catch a preview of upcoming attractions. Cost is $2. Seating is limited so advance reservations are recommended.
On March 29, the University of North Florida presents The Parsons Dance Company. A contemporary American dance ensemble, Parsons is characterized by colorful costuming and non-traditional lighting. They will be on stage at the Lazzara Theatre in UNF’s Fine Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $36, $32, $28 or $20.
From the same folks that designed Disney on Ice comes “Toy Story 2” April 23-27 at the Coliseum. Familiar characters from the cartoon will be featured in addition to Mrs. Potato Head and some new faces. With world-class skaters in oversized costumes, promoters promise the show to be both funny and thrilling for fans of the animated sequel. Seats are $25, $18 and $14. Call 630-3900 for showtimes.
LaVilla Middle School of the Arts hosts its Showcase 2003 in the school’s theater April 10-11 at 7:30 p.m. On April 15, they will spotlight student dance choreography, also in the school’s theater, at 7:30 p.m.
For those who want to dance instead of watch, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is holding its annual Cummer Ball and Auction April 12 from 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Considered to be the party of the year in certain social circles, the ball and auction was organized to raise funds for the museum’s art acquisition fund .
On the fourth Saturday of every other month at Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, Nocturnal Escape introduces the Soul Kollage extravaganza, featuring music, poetry, art and dance performances. The next show is scheduled for April 26 from 7-11 p.m. Tickets are $12.