Triple Threat Dance Showcase Returns to South Orange Performing Arts Center, 3/17

Triple Threat Dance Showcase triumphantly returns to the stage at South Orange Performing Arts Center Friday, March 17th at 8 p.m. to shine the spotlight on three diverse New Jersey dance companies.Umoja Dance Company, Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre and Nimbus Dance Works come together to create an eclectic performance of dance that celebrates diversity and culture. The power and infectious rhythms of African drum and dance, the elegance and passion of Latin dance, and the grace and beauty of ballet come together to celebrate the melting pot of American heritage.

Umoja Dance Company was established in 1993 by Karen L. Love to foster a communal and spiritual expression of life and to educate and preserve African culture. The Kiswahili word for "Unity", Umoja creates a nurturing environment that encourages cross-cultural exchange and celebrates the versatility of the human spirit. The ever-changing company continues to adapt aspects of African culture, aesthetics and values to encourage innovation and creativity. Recognized as one of the premier dance companies in New Jersey, Umoja was selected to perfrom at the Aarom Davis Hall as part of the New Vision / New Voices Choreography Showcase for People of Color.

Alborada Spanish Dance Theatre was founded in 1965 by Maria Alba, known to many as being the greatest exponent of the seguiriya and many other Spanish dance drama pieces in the U.S. The company believes strongly in bringing a broad perspective of Spanish culture and traditions to the community. Unlike other Spanish dance companies, Alborada brings to the stage dance dramas such as El Amor Brujo and dramatizations of Spanish poets like Federico Garcia Lorca. In 2010 Alborada had the honor of being a part of the Emmy-award winning program "The Spanish Guitar" and in 2012 they took the stage at NJPAC as part of the Hispanic Youth Showcase and the Festival of Dance.

Nimbus Dance Works focuses its work on the intersection between high-level dance and innovative ways of involving communities and audiences. Pulling its dancers from renowned and revered companies from around the world, Nimbus creates a potpourri of eclectic and diverse talent. With a broad umbrella of influence, Nimbus pulls from every school of dance to create mesmerizing performances that will capture your heart and soul. Currently in its twelfth season, Nimbus takes pride in its multiple youth outreach programs, serving over 2,000 youth in New Jersey.

The Triple Threat Dance Showcase will take the stage at the South Orange Performing Arts Center on March17 at 8:00 p.m. They are $15-$20 and can be purchased at http://www.sopacnow.org/triple-threat-dance-showcase/ or by calling the box office at (973)-313-2787.

Dance performances at SOPAC are supported in part by the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation.