LERON WELLINGTON
Staff Writer
Fredonia gets a rare but long-awaited deal with the upcoming performance of the Lehrer Dance 10th Anniversary Season Concert. The event, which is sponsored by the Carnahan Jackson Humanities Fund and the Department of Theatre and Dance, has been in the making for months.
The company, which was created by Jon Lehrer in 2007, features eight dancers that have performed original works choreographed by Lehrer himself.
Throughout the years, Lehrer Dance has had close ties to the local Buffalo community. Some examples include many events and performances at University at Buffalo and intensives that are catered to young dancers interested in learning the specific style of dance that Lehrer has created.
This is not the first time Fredonia has worked with Lehrer Dance. For over five years, Lehrer and his team have visited the campus to present masterclasses and numerous showings. He has even choreographed many of his original pieces for the Fredonia Dance Ensemble. His most recent work here was Lehrer Dance Day, which happened last semester and featured many classes and a showing.
Chris Victor, a senior dance and audio/radio production major and treasurer for Orchesis, has taken some of Lehrer’s masterwork classes while at Fredonia.
“Lehrer has a really cool and unique philosophy when it comes to dance,” Victor said. “I’m very happy that he has shared some of his teaching with us and I am so excited for the upcoming concert.”
Helen Myers, professor and director of the dance program, has worked personally with John Lehrer and has developed a strong respect for his work.
“I am excited to bring them here, especially with such cheap tickets. Audiences are getting to see a world-class company that tours internationally. And this concert is accessible to everyone, which I think is great,” said Myers.
The concert will take place Thursday, April 13 in Marvel Theatre. Tickets are $10 for both students and general public.