Hubbard Street Brings Incredible Artistry to Springfield

On Thursday, April 16, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presented an amazing evening of dance artistry on the Sangamon Auditorium stage. For me, the event was one of the most anticipated of our 2008-2009 Visiting Artist Series, and it definitely satisfied my quest for truly fine performing arts events in Springfield. State Journal-Register Arts & Entertainment editor Brian Mackey captured the experience beautifully in his Thursday, April 23 column. Take a read, if you like, and be sure to visit this blog often for more information about some of the feats of incredibly artistry that take place at the University of Illinois at Springfield.

Dance troupe graces Springfield
Column by Brian Mackey
The State Journal-Register

UIS Theatre to stage first Shakespeare play

The instructions were coming fast.

Critique. Encouragement. Next.

“Orlando, ‘How bitter it is to look at happiness through another man’s eyes.’ ... You can still go a little further with that being hard for you.”

“Audrey, let’s cut the sniffing of the armpits. But, boy, I appreciate trying stuff like that.”...

Article by Brian Mackey
The State Journal-Register
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"Annie" is tonight!

When Kary Walker was a rehearsal pianist, right out of high school, for a show being choreographed by Patsy Swayze — yes, the mother of actor Patrick Swayze — he spied a man in a suit telling people what to do...

Article by Dru Willis
The State-Journal Register
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Hubbard Street dancers push physicality to its limits

Glenn Edgerton, the associate artistic director of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, remembers the first time he saw the “The Constant Shift of Pulse” in rehearsal. That night, he attended a basketball game. “They were so timid in their movements compared to what I’d just seen in the studio,” Edgerton said.

Article by Brian Mackey

The State Journal-Register
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Sneak Preview! Hubbard Street Dance Chicago

If you're curious about what Hubbard Street Dance Chicago will perform at Sangamon Auditorium - here is your sneak preview! The company is planning to present 3 pieces during the performance on Thursday, April 16, at 7:30 p.m. Off Screen uses music from movies, focusing on the progression of moods and feelings found in both film and music. The Constant Shift of Pulse is an intricate and visually powerful piece that illuminates the purity of movement as the dancers test the boundaries of trust and release. The third work, Minus 16, features unexpected music choices, ranging from Dean Martin to cha cha to traditional Israeli folk music. Ideas and thoughts of the choreographer and HSDC dancers captured in audio recordings add another layer to this work.

Here's a clip of HSDC performing another work titled Extremely Close.