Mark and I went and saw Parsons Dance Company perform last night at the De Jong Concert Hall. Let me just say, it was fantastic. They're a modern/contemporary/jazz company from New York who use acrobatics, strobe lights and eccentric music to portray the choreography of artistic director, David Parsons. I went as a requirement for modern dance, and had an extra ticket, so I invited Mark along with, as a bit of culture, so he could see what I do, and why I do it. I wasn't sure how he would react to it, but it turned out well, as he said while walking out "that was so fun! They were so cool and fun to watch!" So, success. I have cultured someone to the art of expression through dance. He didn't see the differences between pieces as well as I did, but that's alright...I'm a bit more trained than he is. Still glad that he enjoyed it.
The first half of their show was more modern, with less technique. The hand dance (exactly as it sounds) was entertaining and funny. I love those dances. The second half became more contemporary/jazz. One piece was a solo using a strobe, making the audience believe that the soloist was flying through the air. It was fantastic and beautiful and I was in awe of how strong and determined the dancer was--it took a lot of endurance. The second half was definitely my favorite, as it delved more into my type of dance. During it, I even turned to Mark and said, I wanna go dance! He just laughed at me. And mom, you would appreciate this...the last piece was danced to a series of Earth, Wind and Fire songs. That was a toe-tapper for sure :)
It helped that we had great seats...third row! Mark was impressed :) It was a fun night though, and gave me some ideas for choreography that I need in order to finalize my solo for jazz. yikes!
