Slip, an annual dance collaboration run by University Players, will display a collection of student dancers and choreographers showcasing their work to the public this weekend.
The event will take place over three days in the Lee Norvelle Theatre and Drama Center’s Studio Theatre. There will be an open dress rehearsal at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 24, two shows at 7:30 and 11 p.m. Jan. 25 and a final show at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26. All shows are free and open to the public.
Julianne Rice, the director of choreography and movement for University Players, is co-directing Slip with Claire Liechty, a University Players member.
Choreographers have been working since October by turning in applications, working with dancers, designing costumes and collaborating with lighting and sound designers. The show will mainly be contemporary dance, Rice said.
“Anyone that really enjoys watching or even dancing contemporary dance, I would highly recommend attending the show,” Rice said.
This year, Slip will feature an array of genres and styles, including musical theater, jazz, contemporary, Bharatanatyam and improvisation. One dance will even feature audience participation, Rice said.
“It’s gonna be a nice, diverse show,” Rice said. “I’m just super excited because there are a lot of dances that are high energy. There’s one dance that is like a Queen medley.”
Rice said she hopes the variety of performances will help encourage more participation from majors outside the Department of Theatre, Drama and Contemporary Dance in the future.
Megan Kudla, a junior taking part in Slip as a dancer and choreographer, said although IU has many opportunities for choreographers, it is difficult to book a space such as the Studio Theatre, which is always booked for other shows and projects.
“This is one chance to create choreographic works simply for personal interest, pleasure, and experimentation in a space that can incorporate other elements like intricate light and sound,” Kudla said in an email.
Kudla, looking for more opportunities for creative expression, decided to put together a duet with one of her friends for the event. The duet will feature themes of hope and joy.
“Because we all independently choose to be a part of these projects, there is a lot of excitement and commitment that you can really feel during everyone's individual rehearsals,” Kudla said. “It's about taking time to be with friends and to dance in projects you are passionate about.”
