This past weekend (Oct 12-14), the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Michelle Dorrance, artistic director, founder and choreographer of Dorrance Dance, presented a three work production that fused hip-hop, break dancing, live music and individual style to create one of the most electrifying and riveting rendition of tap dancing.

Dorrance Dance Myelination Pictured (from left to right) Byron Tittle and Michelle Dorrance Photo Credit Kevin Parry for The Wallis

Dorrance Dance celebrates the distinct tradition of dance through the vision of Artistic Director and 2015 MacArthur Fellow, Michelle Dorrance. Founded in 2011 the acclaimed dance company incorporates new and unique forms of dance, such as street, club & experimental dance creating a constantly evolving style of dance. This West Coast premiere version of Myelination included the Bessie Award-winning Three to One, Jungle Blues and a new, fully extended version of Myelination.

The harmonious relationships on stage between the live music, choreographed dance, and individual style variations is what the company is best known for. With each act layered in synchronicity, the music and movement became an extension of one another. Solo and duet performances were filled with head spins, handstands and bold improvised moves. The music and combined the personal style of each dancer told a story and evoked and intensified emotion. The bodies of the dancers moved as one with the band and the lights it all added to the intensity. The production was eccentric, molding modern and classical tap was received with great satisfaction and a standing ovation from the audience.

Dorrance Dance, Myelination, Pictured Byron Tittle, Photo Credit: Kevin Parry for The Wallis

Dorrance Dance has performed at celebrated venues such as Jacob’s Pillow, The Joyce Theater, The Kennedy Center, New York City Center, Lincoln Center Out of Doors, Vail International Dance Festival, National Arts Centre of Canada, Spoleto Festival USA, Fira Tarega (Spain), Staatstheater Darmstadt (Germany), and more.

Visit the website to find out about upcoming performances in your area.  https://www.dorrancedance.com/