The Ordway begins its 2011-2012 Target World Music and Dance Series by welcoming Chicago-based Luna Negra Dance Theater on October 25 at 7:30 p.m. A dance company that moves beyond cultural stereotypes and expectations, Luna Negra will perform three contemporary works by prominent Latino choreographers."Luna Negra Dance Theater is making a name for itself in its Midwest home base and across the nation," states Patricia A. Mitchell, Ordway president and CEO. "This graceful, theatrical and exquisitely talented company of dancers tells compelling stories with visually stunning movement. Luna Negra's performance is not to be missed."Founded in 1999 by Cuban-born dancer and choreographer Eduardo Vilaro, Luna Negra celebrates the richness and diversity of Latino culture through the creation of dances by contemporary choreographers paving the way in the industry. Steering away from folkloric representations of the culture, Luna Negra presents contemporary Latino dances with energy, power and passion.On October 25, Luna Negra's public performance at the Ordway will include three works from the company's repertoire: "Bate," choreographed by Fernando Melo, is inspired by the spirit of Brazilian soap operas and the masculine world of Samba, where men express not only their love and devotion to women, but also their troubles and melancholy; "Flabbergast," choreographed by Gustavo Ramírez Sansano, exposes with humor stereotypes and preconceived ideas about new and foreign places; and "Paloma Querida," choreographed by Michelle Manzanales, is a homage to the life and art of Frida Kahlo.Prior to the public performance, the Ordway will host an Ordway Extra on the topic of Latin identities within contemporary arts in the Ordway's Marzitelli Foyer at 6:30 p.m. In addition, there will be a post-show Talk Back with performers in the theater. To learn more about pre- and post-show events, free to ticket holders, visit ordway.org/events.During Luna Negra's time at the Ordway, the company will reach nearly 8,000 students in grades 2-8 through Ordway's education department initiatives and its Performing Arts Classroom Series.
