Feburary 7, 2024 | News Release
“Spring Into Motion” features NDI New Mexico dancers performing “El Muro/The Wall,” choreographed by NDI New Mexico Inaugural Teaching Artist in Residence Dana Tai Soon Burgess; and “Unfolding,” an original, collaborative work with renowned New Mexico authors Luci Tapahonso and Lauren Camp
“Spring Into Motion” performances Feb. 16 and 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets on sale at dancebarns.com/tickets
SANTA FE, N.M. (February 7, 2024) National Dance Institute (NDI) of New Mexico today announced its popular annual live performance, Spring Into Motion, at The Dance Barns in Santa Fe. This year’s Spring Into Motion, created by Dance Barns Artistic Director Rodney Rivera, is a two-part performance beginning with El Muro/The Wall, choreographed by NDI New Mexico’s inaugural Teaching Artist in Residence, Dana Tai Soon Burgess. El Muro/The Wall explores the plight of migrants from Latin America seeking asylum at the U.S. border with Mexico, and examines the universal desire for a secure home and the obstacles of overcoming loss to start anew in the U.S.
The second half of the performance is Unfolding, a collaboration with two renowned New Mexico authors: Luci Tapahonso, Professor Emerita of English Literature at the University of New Mexico and the Navajo Nation Inaugural Poet Laureate; and Lauren Camp, current New Mexico Poet Laureate and author of seven books of poetry. Unfolding is informed by specific works of these writers, reflecting the challenges, insights, strengths, and experiences of women everywhere.
“We are honored and thrilled that so many renowned artists are contributing to this year’s performance,” Rivera said. “Their artistry, combined with the talent of our most advanced and dedicated student dancers, will result in an illuminating, insightful and uplifting performance that celebrates the human experience.”
The performance is conceived by Rivera, with music performed by a chamber orchestra led by Dr. Jessie Wenchieh Lo. “That our students are able to present this unique and sophisticated performance is reflective of NDI New Mexico’s focus on helping young people gain confidence through hard work, resilience and doing their best.” said NDI New Mexico Artistic Director Liz Salganek. “We think the Santa Fe community will be impressed with the creativity of this performance, as well as the emotional breadth, exploration of themes around equity and inclusion, and the technical skill and artistry exhibited by our students.”
“Spring into Motion is an excellent example of NDI New Mexico’s commitment over the past 30 years to help New Mexico youth realize their potential through the arts,” said NDI New Mexico Executive Director Russell Baker. “This ambitious, original performance showcases not only the immense talent in our community, but also our rich cultural heritage. As NDI New Mexico celebrates this important anniversary, we look forward to many more decades of helping youth fulfill their potential.”
Spring into Motion has been generously underwritten by Thornburg Investment Management. The Spring Into Motion performances are February 16 and 17 at 7 p.m. at The Dance Barns in Santa Fe.
Tickets for Spring into Motion performances are available at dancebarns.com/tickets. Seating is limited.
NDI New Mexico’s annual Spring into Motion performance provides the organization’s advanced students with opportunities to participate in high-level, curated productions, which appropriately challenge them to expand their technical artistry and performance capabilities. These experiences often lead students to develop a passion for performing and interest in participating in more NDI New Mexico classes, as well as summer programs around the country and performing arts high school experiences.
About: NDI New Mexico was founded in 1994 with the knowledge that the arts have a unique power to engage and motivate children. The purpose of its distinctive programs is to help children develop discipline, a standard of excellence, and a belief in themselves that will carry
over into all aspects of their lives.
Contact: Jamie Dickerman
505-720-2195
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