Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble: Dances to American Music at Center for the Arts at George Mason University

Program: Northwest Dancing Honeymoon Three Preludes You’ve Got to Be Modernistic The Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble returns to the Center for the Arts with Dances to American Music, a vibrant celebration of the rich tapestry of American music and dance. Featuring choreography by the legendary Mark Morris, “undeviating in his devotion to music” (The New Yorker), this program highlights music by iconic American composers in a celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Set to compositions by John Luther Adams, Northwest is a captivating contemporary exploration of Yup’ik and Athabascan rhythmic traditions of the southwestern Alaskan indigenous people. The dynamic You’ve Got to Be Modernistic revels in the music of jazz and stride piano pioneer James P. Johnson. The solo Three Preludes showcases Gershwin's jazzy elegance and rhythmic brilliance, while timeless songs from the 1920s and ’30s accompany the joyful Dancing Honeymoon, about which the Seattle Post-Intelligencer says, “this is vintage Morris and everybody, including the audience, has the time of their lives.”

Dances to American Music celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the nation’s artistic heritage. This program fosters a deeper appreciation for the creativity that has shaped—and continues to define—American culture during this historic milestone.

This performance is appropriate for all ages.

This performance will be audio-described.