Ohio Contemporary Ballet to Return to Playhouse Square with ECHOES AND INNOVATIONS

Ohio Contemporary Ballet, formerly known as Verb Ballets, has revealed its return to Playhouse Square with Echoes and Innovations. This program will take the stage at the Ohio Theatre on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., highlighting both influential past choreographers and pioneering 21st-century visionaries.
 
Echoes and Innovations is a celebration of our commitment to honoring the rich history of dance while also exploring the boundaries of contemporary ballet. The program highlights a style that is distinct to our company and region," said Dr. Margaret Carlson, Producing Artistic Director, of Ohio Contemporary Ballet. "The return to Playhouse Square is a homecoming for us, and we are thrilled to share these powerful works with our dedicated fans and new audiences."

The company will premiere solos and duets from Donald McKayle's iconic Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder, a powerful work that portrays prisoners' yearning for freedom through heartfelt memories of their loved ones. At a time when racial discrimination was pervasive, McKayle's works provided a voice and platform for African American narratives, focusing on themes of humanity, identity, and social justice. McKayle was one of the first African American choreographers to work within mainstream dance companies, paving the way for other minority artists. His choreography, masterfully combining narrative storytelling with expressive movement, has made a lasting impact on the history of dance.

 Gerald Arpino, choreographer, and co-founder of the Joffrey Ballet created Light Rain in 1981 for the company's Silver Anniversary. This ballet was designed to highlight the youthful energy and talent of the Joffrey's new dancers. Set to a mesmerizing score by Douglas Adamz and Russ Gauthier, which blends Eastern and Western music, the piece explores themes of young love through its sensual and athletic choreography. Renowned for showcasing dancers' technical skill and daring boldness, Light Rain continues to captivate audiences today. This work stands as a testament to Arpino's visionary style, challenging norms, and expectations in ballet. Ohio Contemporary Ballet is honored to perform this iconic duet on the program.
 
Award-winning choreographer Stephanie Martinez moves her audiences along a journey guided by the kinetic momentum of her work. Martinez was awarded Joffrey Ballet’s “Winning Works: Choreographers of Color” commission and the Chicago 3Arts Award in recognition for her work as a female artist of color. Her versatility expands the boundaries of contemporary ballet movement, challenging viewers to discover what is possible. During the pandemic, Ohio Contemporary Ballet commissioned her to choreograph a new work that was uniquely crafted through Zoom. Her work World of Another, takes audiences through a story of shared emotions and connections. Critics have hailed it as "pure gold for the company." The ballet has not been performed since the pandemic and offers a poignant reflection on the importance of human connection.
 
Tommie-Waheed Evans is a queer Black dance maker, who creates works that explore themes of blackness, spirituality, and liberation. He was featured as one of "25 to Watch" by Dance Magazine and received the Pew Fellowship in the Arts, Princess Grace Choreography Fellowship and Guggenheim Award. His choreographic style blends street dance with contemporary vocabulary. Dark Matter was commissioned by Ohio Contemporary Ballet in 2013, representing one of the first commissions in his early career. This audience favorite returns to the stage, known for its polyrhythmic score and mesmerizing lighting capturing chaos, beauty, and resilience.
 
Ohio Contemporary Ballet's Board President, David M. Dusek adds, "The program is a testament to the fantastic and diverse nature of the company. We are thrilled to share the best dance company in the region at Playhouse Square.”
 

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