This coming winter, with funding awarded by the Dance Alliance, the Saratoga Springs Nacre Dance Group presents Light and Shadow: The Teachings of Charles Weidman’s Echo Air and Mankind Solos from his Christmas Oratorio.
These events will involve two free master classes followed by a community tea, and a performance of The Christmas Ontario by the Nacre Dance Group on December 14.
Saratoga Springs Nacre Dance Group is a non-profit organization that seeks to push the boundaries of traditional dance, while also maintaining its rich history. Nacre aims to spread the education of dance by offering workshops, regional performances, and opportunities for professional dancers and choreographers. Dedicated to preserving modern dance, Nacre has a mission to increase exposure of dance for youths, and make the area of Saratoga finer in the process.
With project funding awarded by The Dance Alliance, The Nacre Dance Group are able to offer the Light and Shadow masterclasses led by Artistic Director Beth Fecteau. On November 7 and 14 from 6:00-8:30 pm at the Saratoga City Ballet, the class participants will be guided through the two solo dances Echo Air and Mankind.
The workshops will include a solo performance by student understudies Madison Nesbitt and Maya Kakaty, a technique class with emphasis on choreographic motifs, discussions on history, costuming, symbolism, along with interpretation, and a chance for the participants to experience dancing in costume.
In addition, Nacre Dance Group will host an Afternoon Tea and Lecture Demonstration before each Oratorio performance on Sunday December 14. The tea will take place at 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, with attendees treated to live music under direction of Noah Palmer and tea by Chocolate Is Self Care. Also included is an arts and craft project inspired by the core ideas of Charles Weidman’s piece.
By pairing the Christmas Oratorio with a version of the Nutcracker, Nacre Dance Group seeks to transform the stage of the Universal Preservation Hall into a magical night of holiday wonder. This presentation is set to be the biggest one yet, featuring over 20 plus dancers, more that 40 musicians and vocalists, 100 plus tea participants, and a goal of reaching 500 plus audience members for both performances.
For inspiring young dancers, the Light and Shadow masterclass could be the perfect way to hone your skills and open doors for future dancing opportunities. The Nacre Dance Group’s Christmas Ontario could also be an excellent addition to your holiday season, never too early to start planning.
Workshops are offered to ages 14 and up. If interested in registering, visit here. For more information on the Christmas Oratorio and Nacre Dance Group, visit here.
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