The annual spring dance concert is right around the corner, scheduled for May 9. The show is choreographed, produced, and directed by the talented students at the UO Department of Dance. Liner Notes has talked with some students who will participate in the show, to see how the rehearsal process has gone.
Name: Liz Clark, Senior
What will your performance be about?
I’m one of the choreographers for this year’s Spring Student Dance Concert (SSDC). My dance piece “Cling” explores the metaphorical transference of the concept on chasing after opportunities through movement and the relationship between the dancers in space.
How have your rehearsals for the show been?
It has been a long process, but every moment has been so worth it. I also enjoyed getting to work with talented and hard-working dancers. I have learned so much throughout this whole experience; from being able to translate to my dancers what I’m specifically looking for based on the use of language and to always keep asking myself questions when making decisions.
Do you have anything you’d like to share with the audience before the show?
I hope you guys enjoy the show! This piece is something that all of us can relate to and everyone involved with SSDC has done such a wonderful job putting this show all together.
Name: Doug Hooker, Senior
What will your performance be about?
A reflection on the desires people have for opportunities beyond their reach and how they learn from those experiences. 
How have your rehearsals for the show been?
The rehearsal process has been fun! It’s my first SSDC, so it has been an awesome opportunity to get to work with my peers through the creative process.
Do you have anything you’d like to share with the audience before the show?
Dance is a great medium through which artists can express their thoughts and communicate their experiences with others. This piece highlights a relatable topic, which shows up throughout our lives, and I think Liz has done a great job translating that experience with her movement.
Name: Alyssa Puleo, Sophomore
What will your performance be about?
Love in its many forms.
How have your rehearsals for the show have been?
Practice has been wonderful. Our cast consists of some of the funniest people I know, so we have a great time dancing together. There’s a great chemistry in the air during rehearsal, and we’ve been working really hard to make this piece powerful.
Do you have anything you’d like to share with the audience before the show?
To any audience coming to a dance show, be open to the idea of being moved. I believe dance is a language that speaks to every one, especially those who are truly open to letting themselves listen.
The Spring Student Dance Concert will start at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2013 in Dougherty Dance Theatre, Gerlinger Annex. Ticket is $5 for students and seniors, $10 for general admission. Tickets are available at the door or in advance from UO Ticket Office.
