NICEVILLE — A two-day dance spectacular by the Northwest Florida State College dance program will include guest artist performances by the Grain de Sable Dance Company of France.
Grain de Sable — celebrating its 10th anniversary — is based in Soullans, a town in the same region as Crestview's sister city, Noirmoutier. The students are participating in a 10-day exchange program and staying with Northwest Florida residents.
Dance Facets begins at 7:30 p.m. April 22 and 23 in the Mainstage Theater, Mattie Kelly Fine and Performing Arts Center, 100 College Blvd., Niceville.
Proceeds support the Frances Smith Dance Studio Endowment and student scholarships.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for youths age 18 and younger. Purchase by phone or web at 729-6000 or www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org, or at the door at 6 p.m. on show nights. NWFSC students may request one free ticket per student ID. Doors open at 7 p.m. for open seating selection.
Joseph Taylor, NWFSC dance program coordinator said, “It is always a pleasure to host our French friends and we have done many choreographic exchanges with this stellar dance company.” The French guest artists will bring three dance pieces with them titled, D'un élément nait l'instant (from one person, all is possible), Chercher sa voi…. (find his own way of living), and Second Souffle (2nd breath, rebirth).
“They always add a richness to our performance," Taylor said, “so I anticipate that this year’s offerings will be no different and will be an amazing addition to our concert.”
Upon their return to France after the exchange, Joseph Taylor and fellow NWF State dance instructor Kelly Murdock will travel to Soullans to teach master classes in contemporary dance and jazz.
“Our connection with this company extends the length of the company’s history,” Taylor said. “The college’s dance faculty have been friends with the artistic director and resident choreographer, Audrey Balavoine, not only as an artistic director but also as choreographer, dancer, and friend for more than 20 years.”
For information about the college’s dance program or scholarships, contact Taylor at 729-6036 or the Fine & Performing Arts Division Office at 729-5382.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: NWFSC's April 22-23 dance spectacular will feature this French company