FALL CONCERT UNIVERSITY DANCE COMPANY
Choreographers
Ashley Brittingham
Claire Buss
Michelle He ner Hayes
Marisa Plasencia
Guest Artists
Amirah Sackett
Jayhawk Tap Co.
NOVEMBER 22, 23, 24, 2024
Department of Theatre & Dance Land Acknowledgment
Translation from Menominee to English
The KU Department of Theatre & Dance acknowledges that our performances take place on the ancestral homelands of several Tribal Nations, including the Kansa/ Kaw, the Osage. Specifically, the University of Kansas occupies land forcefully ceded in an 1825 treaty with the Kansa/Kaw Nation and a later treaty removing the Delaware/Lenape people.
This traditional territory was not a single property with border lines but rather maintained by Tribal peoples as traditional stewards, and we recognize an enduring relationship exists tying Tribal peoples to the land. Elements of the land remain embedded into their Tribal identities, culture, and language. The Department emphatically recognizes and supports the sovereignty of the four federally recognized Tribal Nations present in Kansas today: the Potawatomi, Kickapoo, Sac and Fox, and Iowa.
As we gather in this community space, we ask that you all take a moment to give thanks for this day as we celebrate and honor the contribution of this production by the KU University Dance Company. We ask that you feel the good energy, passion, and commitment of the students and help us to honor their gifts they will share today. We wish for you to be rejuvenated and take this good energy and find a way to share a little with your community and others. The world needs laughter, music, dance, and the arts–the language of universal love. The land is home to us all. In the name of humanity, we ask for a final moment of reflection as we recognize and honor the past, and most importantly the arts and culture of the original people of this land.
The Department looks forward to future partnerships and collaborations that honor this land acknowledgement. Enjoy the production and safe travels to all.
Bubbles Drop, with the Jayhawk Tap Company
Choreographer: Cullen Krishna, Anna Shelton
Music: Bubbles Drop by Cosmonkey
Costume Design: Jayhawk Tap Company members
Lighting Design: Elliot Bowman
Dancers: McKenna Bizal, Morgan Blanton, Dinah Criswell, Sofia Dunkelberger, Mia Godinez, Cullen Krishna, Marti Lond, Abigail Lorenz, Alaina Rossell, Paul Ruf (understudy), Madi Seelye, Emily Shaw, Anna Shelton, Annika Yoder
Are we a unit? Are we individuals? Are we rigid? Fluid? How long can we maintain our true self // How long can we keep up the act?
¿Te suena?
Choreographer: Marisa Plasencia
Music: 3 Reyes De La Terapia
Performed by: Ondatrópica
Writers: Mario Alejandro Galeano Toro (PRS), William Holland (PRS) and Juan Puello (NS)
Master: Soundway Records Ltd. (c/o Third Side Music)
Punkero Sonidero
Performed by: Ondatrópica
Writers: Mario Alejandro Galeano Toro (PRS)
Master: Soundway Records Ltd. (c/o Third Side Music)
Suena
Performed by: Ondatrópica
Writers: Anamaría Tijoux Merino (SCD) and William Holland (PRS)
Master: Soundway Records Ltd. (c/o Third Side Music)
Cumbia Bucanera
Performed by: Ondatrópica
Writers: William Holland (PRS)
Master: Soundway Records Ltd. (c/o Third Side Music)
Publisher of all titles: Third Side America (ASCAP) o/b/o Soundway Publishing Ltd. (PRS)
Costume Design: Kelly Vogel
Lighting Design: Elliot Bowman
Dancers: Maren Benz, JT Czoch, Sofia Dunkelberger, Alyssa Harris, Keaja Hodge, Jadyn Kaufman, Jazmyne Le, Alexandria Lefler, Esther McBride, Lillian McLaughlin, Natalie Remack
Special acknowledgment to Mackenzie Wichman for her work
Informed by research on cumbia dance and music, references to artists and dancers that have popularized the genre appear in ¿Te suena?. This piece is inspired by the multiple forms cumbia takes across Mexico, South Texas, Colombia, and performances by musicians that have traversed these regions. Choreographically, the work experiments with form and moves across a range of dance genres, driven by fusions in its musical score. ¿Te suena? prioritizes the creation of a community of dancers on stage, united by contemporary rhythms of cumbia.
In Recognition
This production is made possible in part by generous support from the Janet Hamburg Fund and the John M. and Frances R. B. Peterson Visiting Artist Fund.
Exist in the Art
Choreographer: Claire Buss
Music: Thirst by Johan Glössner, The Ninth Day by DEX 1200 & Pawan Krishna, No One Can See You by Hanna Ekström & Anna Dager, Skywards by Aiyo
Scenic Design: Dennis Christilles
Costume Design: Kelly Vogel
Lighting Design: Elliot Bowman
Dancers: Morgan Blanton, Rylee Brown, Nicole Fronek, Mia Godinez, Kaylee Lempke, Abigail Lorenz, Ella Nadeau, Sarah Perez, Dylan Pope, Madi Seelye, Anna Shelton, Nikolette Treadwell, Stephanie Wirth (understudy)
Exist in the Art was inspired by J. Paul Getty’s reflection: “To me, my works of art are all vividly alive. They are the embodiment of whoever created them— a mirror of their creator’s hopes, dreams, and frustrations.” This piece is a personal exploration of my movement and the research that shapes it. In many ways, dance is as much a visual art as any painting or sculpture. Though it is performed, its beauty lies in its impermanence— a fleeting moment that can never be exactly replicated. Dance invites us to exist fully in the present and to appreciate the experience of movement, whether as a participant or an observer. It is a celebration of time itself, reminding us to embrace the act of creation in the moment.
Otra Vez
Choreographer: Michelle Heffner Hayes
Assistant Choreographer: Christian Boudreaux
Music: A la Susi, Composed by Jose Luis de la Paz, used with permission and gratitude
Costume Design: Kelly Vogel
Lighting Design: Elliot Bowman
Sound Editing: Alex Weston
Dancers: Penelope Brown, Tara Burgat, Cullen Krishna, Kate Long, Eliana Rundus, Madi Seelye, Elizabeth Wellman
Flamenco guitarist José Luis de la Paz created this song in memory of the late cantaora Encarnación Amador Santiago, “La Susi.” Inspired by the methods of experimental choreographer Juan Carlos Lérida, we explored flamenco as a mode of creation. This process happens through hours of repetition in rehearsal, “Otra vez…Otra vez…Otra vez.” After the performance, much like a flamenco juerga (party), all we are left to hold of the experience and the emotions is in our memories.
Nobody, with the Jayhawk Tap Company
Choreographer: Cullen Krishna
Music: Nobody by Jane & the Boy
Costume Design: Jayhawk Tap Company members
Lighting Design: Elliot Bowman
Dancers: Maren Benz, McKenna Bizal, Jadyn Kaufman, Cullen Krishna, Alexandria Lefler, Dylan Pope, Mallory Price, Anna Shelton
Nobody captures the freedom of finding happiness in the self; being able to enjoy life with other people without relying on them.
From the Ashes
Choreographers: Ashley Brittingham
Music: “Rain, In Your Black Eyes”, Composed by Ezio Bosso performed by StradivariFestival Orchestra
Scenic Design: Dennis Christilles
Costume Design: Kelly Vogel
Lighting Design: Elliot Bowman
Dancers: Maisie Cowdin (understudy), Sofia Dunkelberger, Penelope Guezuraga, Sophia Harrison, Jillian Housh (understudy), Alex Hunt, Sloane Smith, Stephanie Wirth, Claire Yarborough
The choreography in this new work explores themes of loss and invisibility, reflecting the frustrations inherent in experiences of emptiness and despair. The veils symbolize various interpretations of sorrow and struggle, evoking memories of darkness and isolation, as well as the burdens of existence accompanied by unvoiced cries for assistance. Ultimately, the dancers unite to emerge from the ashes, embodying acceptance and resilience.
Content Warning
Strobing/flashing lights are used in this piece.
Olive Branch
Choreographer: Amirah Sackett
Music: The Bomb! (These Sounds Fall into My Mind), produced by Kenny Dope & by The Bucketheads, Baddadan by Chase & Status & Bou, Let Me Pop by Modogsta, plus interlude with poetry of Mosab Abu Taha. Allaoui by Hanini, Piano Composition by Nevin Hersch, Olive Branch by Elyaana
Sound Design by Nevin Hersch
Additional vocals by the dancers
Costume Design: Kai Goff
Lighting Design: Elliot Bowman
Dancers: Abby Boyd, Alexandria Demps, Nicole Fronek, Mia Godinez, Nick Lange, Alexandria Lefler, Kaylee Lempke, Mahika Meesa, Anna Shelton (understudy), Quinn Stahly, Joslyn Vetock, Rizzy Xiong
University Dance Company Fall ‘24 Concert Production Team
Producer: Maya Tillman-Rayton
UDC President: Anna Shelton
Assistant Costume Designer: Kai Goff
Production Stage Manager: Jenna Link
Calling Stage Managers: Christian Boudreaux, Samuel Burleson, Jillian Housh, Esther McBride, Anna Shelton, Stephanie Wirth
Assistant Stage Manager: Essy Siegel
Lighting Design Mentors: Michael Cole, Ann Sitzman
Graphic Designer: Chris Millspaugh
Photographer: Luke Jordan
Crew Supervisors: Katie Cooley, Josh Gilpin, Kai Goff
Wardrobe, Hair & Makeup Crew: Giavonni Armstrong, Coria Chaloupecky, Cade Nelson, Abby Young
Scenery & Properties Crew: Katelyn Arnold, Grace Couldry, Casey Schenk, Madison Torrez
Light Board Operator: Hannah Davis
Sound Operator: Emma Torchia
Streaming Technician: Cliff Hoitt-Lange
For Your Information...
In accordance with Kansas State Fire Marshal regulations, we request that you take a moment to identify the two emergency exits closest to you. We have checked these exits and the other emergency equipment in this building and verify they are available for use in case of emergency. In case of an emergency, pay close attention to the house manager or your usher for important life-saving information.
No food is allowed in the Crafton-Preyer Theatre; please keep food in the outer lobby. Bottled and lidded drinks are allowed in the theatre. KU campus buildings are smoke-free.
In consideration of our actors and other audience members, children under age five are not allowed to attend performances. All patrons, even children, must have a ticket to attend performances.
All cell phones and other electronic devices must be turned off during performances. Texting is not allowed during performances.
The use of photographic, video, or recording equipment during performances is strictly prohibited.
Lost items should be reported by calling the University Theatre Production Office at 785-864-3381.
KU DEPARTMENT OF THEATRE & DANCE
Henry Bial Department Chair
Maya Tillman-Rayton Director of Dance
Markus Potter Artistic Director
Jenna Link Production Manager
Jim Dick Managing Director
FACULTY
Erin Barnett • Jane Barnette • Ashley Brittingham • Claire Buss
Dennis Christilles • Rana Esfandiary • Justin Harbaugh • Michelle Heffner Hayes
Alex Haynes • Laura Kirk • Mechele Leon • Michelle Miller • Logan Pachciarz
Marisa Plasencia • Rebecca L. Rovit • Ann Sitzman • Shannon Stewart Kelly Vogel • Tom Zhang
PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Technical Director Alex Weston • Scene Shop Manager David Wanner
Costume Shop Manager Gail Trottier • Marketing Communications Coordinator Lisa Coble-Krings • Administrative Associates Lowen Millspaugh & Jack Rischer • Academic Advisor Christian Boudreaux • HR Specialist Hannah Casto Budget Analyst Karla Williams
STUDENT PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS
Lead House Managers Connor L. Maloney • Madeleine Morris House Managers & Event Staff Clara Childs • Aiden Howell • Jachelle Jones Gus Ketchell • Kinzie Wilmes
Administrative & Box Office Assistants Clara Childs • Paige Hinca Aiden Howell • Connor L. Maloney • Madeleine Morris • Anna Shelton Kinzie Wilmes
Marketing Assistant Maren Meneley
Costume Assistants Joey Albano • Elliot Bowman • Zoe English Reese Gilmore • Lacey Marr
Lighting/Projections Assistants Sean Ingram • Katie Missel • Kennedy Tolar Scenic Assistants Abbie Needham • John Stecher Jr. • Sam White
Technical Assistants Cole Dickey • Cliff Hoitt-Lange • Hana Rose North Emma Torchia
Friends of Theatre & Dance
If you would like to become more involved with the Department, join our Friends of Theatre & Dance organization. FROTH members are active in supporting and assisting the University Theatre and University Dance Company programs and the Department’s students, faculty, and staff. If you’re curious to learn more about FROTH and how you can join, contact Jack Rischer, administrative associate at the University Theatre, call 785-864-3381 or visit kutheatre.com/froth.
2024-2025 FROTH Officers
President: Greg DiVilbiss
President-elect: Ashley Lafond
Treasurer/Past Pres: Julia Hardin
2024-2025 Board of Directors
Beth Chambers
Pam Eglinski
Kate Giessel
Cindy Hart
Michelle Heffner Hayes
Frankie Haynes
Joan Hoffman
Kristen Miles
Markus Potter
Tonya Waller
Judy L. Wright
Ex Officio
Henry Bial, chair
Jim Dick, managing director
Jack Rischer, administrative associate
Season Sponsor Truity Credit Union
Members
Executive Producers
Randy Adams
Sarah Bishop & Jeremy Mullis
Lendley C. & Connie Black
Harvey S. Bodker
Julia Hardin & Ryan Butts
Joyce Castle
Marilyn & Thomas Dobski
Jon & Vicki Jamison
Sandi & Allan Miller
Jerry Nossaman
Bobby R. & Eleanor Patton
Lucy J. Price
Gene Puckett
Janet Riley
Janice M. Carlisle & Joseph R.
Roach
Linda & Scott Robinson
Susan L. Traub
Eleanor A. Woodyard
Jack & Judy Wright
Benefactors
Henry Bial & Jane Barnette
Vicki & Joe Douglas
Kelly & Julie Dunkelberger
Peggy & Larry Johnson
Jacob W. & Maia A. Kennedy
Jacob W. & Maia A. Kipp
Dave Marden & Judy Niebaum
Darren Sextro
Carol Shankel
Erin Spiridigliozzi
Jim & Thelma Taylor
Patrons
David & Mary Kate Ambler
Beverly A. Smith Billings
Tonya Ebner
Kelly Fonkalsrud
David Gaston
John & Ines Gilbert
Webster & Joan Golden
John & Susan Gronbeck-
Tedesco
A. Kip & Kay Grosshans
Allan & Louise Hanson
Cindy Hart
Michelle Heffner Hayes
Heather Hoy
Elaine M. Kautsch
David & Carol Kyner
Sheila Connelly & Suzanne Morrissey
Lynate Pettengill
Jim Peterson & Katherine L.
Pryor
Tom & Debbie Pryor
Teri Pierce & Susan Scannell
Marc V. Scrivo
Peter & Lisa Stobie
Larry Tenopir
Producers
John E. Bechen
Dean & Judy Bevan
Gigi Gibson Bolt
Nathan Bowman
Mindy James & Rex Buchanan
Michael Butell
Peter & Rosalea Carttar
Anne Chapman
Janice Craft
Jacqueline Z. Davis
James L. Dick
Will Dietz
Laura Kirk & Paul Fellers
Iris Fischer
David M. & Ann Gardner
Dan & Carolyn Harden
Dick & Sue Himes
Jean Schrader & Jason Hornberger
Robert & Sheryl Jacobs
Don & Alice Ann Johnston
Lesley Ketzel
Diane & Robert Knapp
Gerald J. Koellsted
Thaddeus & Margaret Kramar
Ashley Lafond
Sacie & David Lambertson
Susan Levine
Mary Loveland
John & Linda Lungstrum
Laura Anne Meyer
Kristen Miles
Jean & Bill Mitchell
Bridget Murphy
Barbara Clarke Nash
Mark & Susan Osborn
John & Janice Pattinson
Mark & Jane Potts
Mark Reaney
Rick Riffel
Sherry Ann Roschitz
Dr. Janet S. Rose
Mary & Fred Sgroi
Jean Shepherd
Kathy Smith
Robert M. & Margo
Campbell Szabo
Kathryn & William Tuttle
Thomas & Melody Volek
Virginia Waldorf
Alice Weis
Jerome Yochim
Laura Zabel
Friends
Catherine Campbell
Beth Chambers
Candice Davis
James C. Dunn
Pam Eglinski
Benjamin Furnish
Bernie & Renee Gerstmayr
Francesca Haynes
William & Cynthia Hislope
Karen Hummel
David R. & Diana Ice
Betty Laird
Mechele Leon
Fred & Carolyn Madaus
Lorraine Michel
Courtney Moffitt
Katherine Patz
Markus R.. Potter
Rebecca L. Rovit & Robert Rohrschneider
Georgann H. Eglinski & Ronald W. Schorr
Dick & Barbara Schowen
Richard Sengpiehl
Sally Shedd
Kalen Stockton
Anne E. Stronach
Audrey Kamb-Studdard & John Studdard
Gail Trottier
Judy A. True
Austin H. Turney
Senior Citizens/KU Students
Mary K. Digby
Richard & Virginia Hardin
Richard Jones, III
Susie Nightingale
Esther Smith
Julie A. Trowbridge-Alford
Ione Unruh
Linda Joy Watts
This list does not include members who have joined since November 4, 2024.