BWW Dance Review: Celebrating a Night of Diversity with THE ELLIOTT DANCE COMPANY

On June 4, 2016, The Elliott Dance Company (EDC), under the direction of Kim Elliott, presented A Night of Diversity Dance Concert at the Jacqueline K. Onassis Theater on West 46th Street in NYC. This was a special performance for a few reasons. For one, this is the last performance by the EDC, as the company is planning on taking a hiatus from performing. And second, Ms. Elliott being a graduate of the Jacqueline K. Onassis High School, is happy to come back and perform where it all started.

Here, in addition to the EDC, they also showcased dances by the EDC Hip Hop Youth Ensemble, Beacon Dance Company Members, Move Free Dance Ensemble, IS 528 Dance Company, and the NuPrayze Dance Ministry featuring choreography by Ms. Elliott, Denise Brown, Yulanda Knights, Ian J. Da Silva, and Janelle Dickerson.

The EDC performed two numbers. The first was entitled To Be Snatched...Is To Be Submissive. What a great piece! The technicality among the dancers was just amazing. It was absolutely mesmerizing as you couldn't take your eyes off the stage! The second offering, H.O.E. (House of Elliott) was a fun piece featuring dancers from the EDC Hip Hop Youth Ensemble. They are such a talented group (both adults and youth). They definitely have the moves, the look, and the attitude!

There are a few pieces I want to highlight. Baby I'm A Star by Ms. Elliott was an entertaining and timely dance set to a medley of songs by the late Prince. Although it had its premiere in May 2015, it felt right especially with his recent untimely death. Power Struggle by Denise Brown did an impressive piece dedicated to those who have dealt with feeling intimidated and/or bullied. In Project Beautiful, Yulanda Knights took us on a journey questioning the media's definition of beauty. The dance concluded with the dancers using the insecurities/imperfections they didn't like about themselves as a reason to believe they are beautiful. Starling Flock by Ian J. Da Silva, has smooth, yet sharp and intricate choreography. Such attention to detail! I give it two thumbs up. Young People's Cry by Janelle Dickerson was a dynamic and spiritual piece. The girls danced with such emotion.

The Elliott Dance Company is a true gem here in New York City. One of the many things that makes this ensemble unique is that the company is comprised of dancers, educators, and choreographers who can contribute and preserve the legacy of dance education, appreciation, and performers. There's that saying "those who can't dance, teach"; however, Ms. Elliott has proven that dance educators are still artists, performers, and creators. This resonates with me because as a fellow dance educator, it is important to know that choosing the path to teach dance is not a shortcut but rather a calling to continue to keep the beauty of the art alive.

Photo Credit: Ruby Frink