‘Geometrics’ is theme of dance show at Butler

The performances will take place in newly renovated space at a former church.

By TRACEY D’ASTOLFO

VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT

YOUNGSTOWN — If you struggled with geometry in high school, the Ballet Western Reserve dancers may be able to give you a different outlook on the subject.

The dance company, in collaboration with the Butler Institute of American Art, will present “Geometrics” at its annual “An Evening of Dance” at the Butler on Friday and Saturday. The performance will bring to life a variety of artwork from the permanent fine art and sculpture collection of the Butler.

Instead of using one artist’s works for their dance interpretation, as they have in the past, Ballet Western Reserve has decided to use the abstract artwork of several artists for this year’s event.

“When I was a student, I loved geometry because I could see dancers following the patterns, angles and curves of the problems we had to solve,” said Richard Dickinson, BWR’s artistic director. “Now that I am a choreographer, I can move the dancers in geometric shapes and create exciting movements.”

The dances are choreographed by Ballet Western Reserve’s professional faculty, with Dickinson serving as director and lead choreographer. Dance styles will include classical ballet, tap, modern, hip-hop and salsa.

Dickinson said this event presents a unique challenge for choreographers because they must interpret a piece of artwork as they imagine it coming to life. The interpretation can be more playful or soulful depending on the piece of art chosen.

“Geometric art is more abstract, presenting a wider interpretation than a realistic piece of art would,” said Dickinson. “I am presenting two works on the program: a playful, colorful romp based on a print of different colored dots and set to the music of Handel; the second work is more sophisticated and edgy with a black and white theme and music by Miles Davis.”

The event will start with a wine and cheese reception in Beecher Court at the Butler, followed by the performance next door at the Butler North Community Performance Space in the recently renovated former First Christian Church building.

In conjunction with the Evening of Dance, the BWR and the Butler are introducing Art Can Dance, a children’s version of the “Geometrics” performance, on Sunday. Art Can Dance begins with a tour of the Butler followed by the dance performance. Each dance will be explained at an age-appropriate level. The event, for elementary school-age children, offers interactive involvement and take home educational materials.