Prepare for an unforgettable evening of dance that dives into the heart of resilience, reflection, and the beauty of human connection. This season's concert weaves together contemporary themes, reimagined classics, and personal journeys. Through diverse styles and innovative choreography, each piece illuminates the complexities of life and the strength we draw from each other. Join us for an experience that spans from introspective modern movements to re-envisioned ballet, each performance a unique invitation to look inward and beyond.

“What Are You Going to Do About It?,” is an exploration of the complexities behind a seemingly simple question. Choreographed by Adjunct Instructor of Dance Alicia “Sunshiine” Gbaho, this piece—rooted in Afrodance—invites audiences to reflect on their own responses to life’s challenges, whether facing societal issues like gun violence, academic pressures, or personal grief. Created in the "Special Topics: Afrodance: Afroetics Centered" course this semester, each dancer’s movement embodies a unique response, capturing resilience, vulnerability, and courage in the face of adversity.

In a stunning restaging of “Waltz of the Flowers” from The Nutcracker, choreographer Janet Strzelec brings new life to a beloved classic. With two Dew Drop Fairies and a blend of dancers en pointe and in ballet slippers, this piece marries tradition with fresh interpretations. The enchanting choreography transports audiences to a world of elegance, grace, and timeless beauty, paying homage to the original ballet while showcasing new creativity.

Strzelec’s imaginative approach continues in “This is what happens when I put on a dress,” a piece inspired by the rhythms of a past era. Drawing from the intricate stylings of Vivaldi and the daily nuances of a bygone age, this work captures what it might feel like to navigate everyday life while bound by the social expectations of that time.

Janet Strzelec’s third contribution, “Smooth Criminal 24,” brings a high-energy homage to the iconic jazz/pop style of Michael Jackson. With movements inspired by his unmistakable rhythms and bold style, the piece fuses history with modern choreography. The dancers capture the magnetic energy of Jackson's work, making this piece a celebration of his influence and a thrilling addition to the concert.

Carly Hughes' “DreamZzz” plunges us into the surreal, transporting the audience to the world of vivid, unpredictable dreams. Divided into three sections, “DreamZzz” captures the highs and lows of the subconscious. The first part reveals joy and familiarity, while the second section moves into the dark, unsettling depths of nightmares. The third is a whirlwind of chaos, portraying the erratic nature of dreams. This piece is a powerful embodiment of the mind’s limitless realms, where each movement flows like the images we encounter in sleep.

Grace Ferrell's piece “What was her name?”, inspired by the movie Collateral Beauty, is a moving portrayal of the connections that unite us all—time, love, and death. Through compelling group work, this choreography reminds us that in facing loss and pain, there is beauty to be found. The dancers use collective movement to symbolize the strength of community, illustrating how even in solitude, we are never truly alone.

Natalie Olmstead’s “Reflection” delves into the complex emotions tied to self-perception and identity. As the piece unfolds, the dancers begin to see themselves authentically. This transformative journey is captured through evocative choreography, allowing the audience to witness the beauty and liberation that come from embracing one’s true self.

In Professor Tricia Zweier’s “Ledged in Trust,” 18 women come together to embody the strength found in unity and support. Using shelves, ledges, and an unspoken trust, each dancer lifts and guides the others, creating a stunning display of partnership and mutual reliance. This piece transcends the boundaries of movement, showing how we achieve more when we rise together. It’s an inspiring tribute to the enduring power of collective strength and empathy.

Anna Hicks’s “Finding Me” is a powerful, high-energy work that follows a soloist on a journey to self-discovery and independence. Through hard-hitting hip hop and jazz funk choreography, the soloist encounters groups embodying societal pressures, each attempting to mold or control her through different dance styles. As she confronts and breaks free from these influences, her resilience and strength shine. As our featured Fall Dance Guest Artist-in-Residence, LU alumna Anna Hicks brings an electrifying energy to the stage. The Lindenwood University Dance Program couldn’t be prouder of the work she’s done since graduation and the artistry she brought to us during her residency. Hicks’s dynamic choreography captures both the tension and triumph of overcoming external pressures, delivering a visually striking and emotionally resonant performance.

Mark your calendar for November 21-23 at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts, located at 2300 West Clay Street, St. Charles, Missouri. Tickets are $10 (2 free tickets for LU students). Don't miss the chance to experience The Lindenwood University Dance Program in one of our favorite events of the year.