Monday Convocation | Dance Convo

February 17, 2017

Sophomore Josh Shields performs to “Prophecies” by Philip Glass during the dance Convocation on Monday evening. Shields co-choreographed the piece with dance instructor Rina van de Kamp. (©Ashleigh Mower for Cate School)

The Cate Dance Ensemble wowed the Monday night Convocation audience on February 13 with modern and minimalist dance performances in the Hitchcock Theatre. The 20-member ensemble took the audience through a multimedia presentation titled “Night of Glass,” featuring the music of contemporary composer Philip Glass. Relying on dance interpretations of Glass’s spare and haunting music, while mixing in video, stills, live piano music, evocative lighting, and technical wizardry, the dancers showcased skills and agility on stage that read more like a professional dance troupe than a high school ensemble.

A highlight was an all-senior piece performed on aerial wires, where dancers hoisted one another in the air and held their suspended bodies horizontally, demonstrating sophisticated control and strength. Many of the numbers were choreographed by students, and the student tech crew was instrumental in creating the dramatic and professional feel of the evening.

Dance Director Rina van de Kamp, who oversaw the program with the help of dance instructor Brooke Melton, thanked members of the Arts Department for their role in the collaborative effort.