YSU Dance Ensemble offers spring concert

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Youngstown State University Dance Ensemble will present its annual spring concert opening Thursday, Friday and Saturday in Bliss Hall’s Ford Theater.

Under the artistic direction of Christine Cobb, faculty member in the department of theater and dance, the concert will showcase 37 students performing 12 dances in a variety of dance genres, including jazz, tap, modern, musical theater and hip hop.

The YSU Dance Ensemble, a sanctioned student organization, accepts members via an audition process in the fall term. Members practice weekly and hone their performance skills as well as their leadership skills.

“The students who audition and are accepted into the YSU Dance Ensemble put countless hours into practicing their discipline,” said Cobb. “They also learn the basics of running a student organization since they must elect officers and participate in activities. The spring concert is the culmination of their yearlong efforts.”

Many of the students’ works are choreographed by students majoring in dance management.

Two highlights from the program will include a tribute to choreographer Bob Fosse, choreographed by senior Kayla Boye; and a musical finale featuring music from “Hairspray” choreographed by graduating senior Malloree Miller.

“Dinosauria,” choreographed by Courtney Blackann, is a whimsical look at the past lives of dinosaurs. Other choreographers include Hayley Platt, Valerie Spano, Jillian Billeck, Kacy Standohar, Caty Moran, Joelle Ballone, Mandi Fetty and Lee Beitzel.

This concert features general admission seating, and there will be no advance ticket sales. Tickets may only be purchased at the door.