BWW Reviews: Tapestry Dance Hits Right Rhythm with RHYTHM, REASON, AND REALITY

I'm not sure if Tapestry Dance Company is Austin's only tap dance performance troupe, but if they're not, they should be. Who on earth could compete or would want to compete with them? There's a reason why the company and its co-founder/producing Artistic Director are so well-respected. They're cool. Flat out cool.

If you go see their current production, a dance concert titled Rhythm, Reason, and Reality, don't expect to see the jazz-hand-filled, Broadway style tap. Tapestry specializes in rhythmic tap, the more soulful, percussive variation of the genre. Each member of the eight person company is just as much a musician as they are a dancer, and what they produce is an intoxicating and delightful two hour jam session. In addition to showcasing incredible technique, all show loads of personality, charisma, wit, and heart. They exude confidence, energy, and joy when they move, and the pure joy they radiate is infectious.

But the praise goes double for Ms. Gray. It's a treat to see Gray dance. There's a passion in what she does, and a need to share that with the audience. It's no surprise that she starts the show by incorporating the audience into her dance solo. In Gray's mind, dance is never a solo expression. It's a communal experience.

Gray even goes as far to say, "Rhythm is a conversation." She's right, and it's a pleasure to converse with her and her company.

RHYTHM, REASON AND REALITY, produced by Tapestry Dance Company, plays the Rollins Studio Theatre inside The Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin, TX now thru April 6th. Performances are Saturday 4/5 at 8pm and Sunday 4/6 at 2pm. Tickets are $39. For tickets and information, please visit www.thelongcenter.org or www.tapestry.org