Merrimack Hall Performing Arts Hosts 5th Annual Evening of Dance 1/13-14

Merrimack Hall is set to present their Fifth Annual Evening of Dance, a weekend of dance events showcasing performance and choreography talent from across North Alabama. The Evening of Dance was created in 2007 and each year, local dance studios are invited to participate in this weekend celebration of dance, that includes public performances and master classes with high-caliber visiting artists.

Tony Selznick, scion of the legendary Hollywood Selznick family, has been in the business of dance and choreography for more than 20 years. In his role as founder and senior agent at McDonald Selznick Associates, Tony has been instrumental in the career development of some of the most sought-after film, television and stage choreographers in the world. Working with his partner Julie McDonald, he has helped their clients bring movement to life in popular culture Tony's devotion to dance started early. Tony's first big break was as a dancer in the 1980 motion picture Xanadu starring the legendary dancer-choreographer Gene Kelly (choreographed by MSA client, Kenny Ortega and Russell Clark). After numerous appearances in music videos, television shows and feature films, he began choreographing. At age 21, he became the associate choreographer to his mentor, the late Russell Clark, on Steven Bochco's critically acclaimed television show "Cop Rock." In 1993 Tony was the dance casting director for the nationally syndicated show "Star Search." In 1994, Tony created Winners Dance Competition, a national talent search performance event that discovered promising young dancers and gave them a chance to secure professional talent representation. In 1995, he expanded the competition to Japan. Additionally, he co-executive produced and co-directed the First Annual American Choreography Awards. Most recently, he was the American Judge on "Superstars of Dance," NBC's international dance competition. Tony, along with business partner Julie McDonald, was a consultant for Step It Up and "Dance" on Bravo and for "Live to Dance" on CBS, featuring Paula Abdul. Every day he works to give back to the craft that has nurtured him for so long, by pairing his clients with the producers who need their talents.

Andre Fuentes is a celebrity choreographer who has toured the world working with major artists. What drives him as an artist and teacher is the ability to touch and bring out the best in humanity, which is incredibly enriching for Andre, and it shows in his work. His name and face go hand and hand with Britney Spears. He has also danced and/or choreographed for Prince, Beyonce and Mya. You may have seen him in TV and films such as The Birdcage, The Longest Yard, "Kids Incorporated" & on various MTV programs to name a few. He won the US & Australian MTV music video award for Britney Spears's "Circus" as the Best Choreographer. Though as much as he appreciates the acknowledgement, no award can size up the amount of people he has inspired along the way. Andre's choreography is known for bringing the audience into the imaginative world he creates with his dancers.

Nick Gonzalez is the co-creator & director of NRG danceProject. He embodies the talent of not only a great performer, but also an innovative choreographer and skilled instructor. The NRG in his class is one of a kind. He will inspire you, get you laughing & make you dance like you never knew you could! His performance credits include: Season 1 and 2 of FOX Network's smash hit "So You Think You Can Dance." Music video credits include: Usher's "Yeah," Recording Artist Tomi in "Baby Get Down," The Ying Yang Twins, Pitbull, Red Man, Fat Joe. Eye opening choreography for HYPE & Move It in London, England. "Best Of The Midwest" in Chicago, Dance Carnival 3 in Hanno, Japan & The latest edition of NBA Ballers 2 and 3. Nick was also the lead judge for 'Got Dance,' the hit TV Show in the Grand Cayman Islands. Nick's teaching style has made him a favorite with every student. Whether on television or in the dance studio, Nick's talents in performance, choreography and instruction give a new meaning to the phrase "triple threat."

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Friday, January 13
4 p.m.: Q&A with Tony Selznick Learn from the best in the business! Tony Selznick, co-owner of McDonald Selznick Associates talent agency, will take your questions about auditioning and being represented by an agency. $25 per person
7:30 p.m.: Evening of Dance

Saturday, January 14
10 a.m.: Audition for Tony Selznick A dance combination will be taught for everyone auditioning as a dancer. Anyone wishing to audition as a singer will do so after the dance audition. Singers should prepare an upbeat selection and a ballad. Music must be on a CD. Everyone auditioning should bring a headshot and resume. $25 per person
1 p.m.: Hip hop with Nick Gonzalez (12 and under)
2 p.m.: Contemporary with Andre Fuentes (12 and under)
3 p.m.: Hip hop with Nick Gonzalez (13 and up)
4 p.m.: Contemporary with Andre Fuentes (13 and up)
7:30 p.m.: Evening of Dance

Sunday, January 15
12 p.m.: Hip hop with Nick Gonzalez (12 and under)
1 p.m.: Contemporary with Andre Fuentes (12 and under)
2 p.m.: Hip hop with Nick Gonzalez (13 and up)
3 p.m.: Contemporary with Andre Fuentes (13 and up)

Master Class & Audition Package: $130 for both classes in your age group, including audition fee and two passes to Q&A.

Classes & tickets may be purchased online or by calling our Box Office
at (256) 534-6455.

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