Above: Jillian Davis and Brandon Gray in Testament.
The New York Based Dance company, Complexions Contemporary Ballet (Complexions) opens its 26th season at The Joyce Theater in New York City from January 21-February 2, 2020. Under the artistic direction of Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson, the company presents three dynamic programs over a two-week span. Filled with a roster of some of the most diverse and exciting young stars, Complexions explodes onto the Joyce Theater stage with their signature style of athleticism, virtuosity and passion that has excited audiences for over a quarter century.
In the first week’s program (Program A), Complexions will present the world premiere of “Love Rocks” a full company ballet set to works by the iconic GRAMMY Award winning singer and songwriter, Lenny Kravitz. Inspired by his vision and eclectic musicianship, this piece will follow Kravitz’s musical exploration where his lush melodies and retro musical style lay a foundation for passionate storytelling through edgy, athletic and theatrical movement as we examine our humanity and its vulnerability. Returning this season due to popular demand is “BACH 25.” Set to the music of Johann Sebastian and Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, the work features the full company in continuous movement to the Baroque composers’ dramatic compositions. A festive, athletic, neo- classical work in the signature style of Complexions; this romantic, playful, and intensely physical piece celebrates the union of music and movement.
In the second week (Program B), the company will reprise “WOKE,” a physical reaction to the daily news. A bold and dynamic socially conscious one act ballet featuring the full company that examines our humanity in conjunction with today’s political climate. Set to an eclectic musical track that runs the gamut from electronica to rap, this work is inspired by the enlightened awareness and challenging moral compass of today’s generation. “BACH 25” will also be a part of this program.
All matinee programs (Matinee) will feature “Love Rocks” and “Essential Parts,” a compilation of audience favorites spanning the 26-year history of the company along with a new world premiere solo. Highlights will include excerpts from classics such as “Testament” (2011), and “Choke” (2006) among other audience favorites.
During the run, Thursday, January 23 will be dedicated to Complexions’ annual fundraising gala. Proceeds from this gala benefit performance will continue to help build Complexions’ educational initiatives through scholarships, mentorship programs and the continued development of Rhoden’s and Richardson’s methodology of dance training. Complexion’s educational initiatives were offered in six cities this past year, allowing the company the ability to mentor and train hundreds of dancers. The gala will give audiences an opportunity to see the next generation of performers as they grace the Joyce stage. In addition to the company performing, there will be a new work performed by the students of Complexions’ pre-professional program.
Tickets range from $20 to $65 and can be purchased online at www.Joyce.org. Tickets can be purchased by phone at 212-242-0800. The Joyce Theater is located at 175 Eighth Avenue (at the corner of 19th Street), New York, NY 10011.
For the most up-to-date schedule for all of the New York based dance company, Complexions Contemporary Ballet programming, follow Complexions via the below links and visit http://www.complexionsdance.org.
