BWW Reviews: Dance Theatre of Harlem at NJ PAC; Performance Excellence Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King

"Almost always the creative and dedicated minority has made the world better." Dr. Martin Luther King.

Dance Theatre of Harlem was featured in the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration that was held at New Jersey Performing Arts Center on Friday, January 17th. The audience was at full capacity in NJ PAC's Prudential Hall. The program was made possible through the generosity of the PSE&G Foundation.

Dance Theatre of Harlem was founded by Arthur Mitchell and is currently under the artistic direction of Virginia Johnson. Their performance was captivating and honored Dr. King who advocated for racial equality throughout his lifetime. Virginia Johnson pointed out in her opening remarks that Dance Theatre of Harlem has given dancers from minority backgrounds the important opportunity to access and become successful in the area of classical dance.

NJ PAC has distinguished itself as a cultural center in Newark, New Jersey presenting the best the arts have to offer and education programs that address a broad community. The program was introduced by the center's President and CEO John Schreiber. Revered Dr. DeForest B. Soaries was one of the notable guests who spoke before the start of the dance performance.

Dance Theatre of Harlem opened with Gloria danced by the full company along with an appearance of young special guest dancers from New York metropolitan area dance programs. Dance Theatre of Harlem does not need elaborate costuming or background to enchant their audience. The elegant choreography by George Balanchine combined with the passion and precision of the dancers made each moment of Gloria a delight for the audience. The opening number set the stage for an evening of extraordinary dance performances.

After the first intermission, a thought provoking piece, Far But Close featured the choreography of John Alleyne accompanied by Daniel Beaty's text with music by Daniel Bernard Roumain. Spoken word movement and music tells of urban romance and how love heals deep emotional wounds. The interplay between the dancers was thoughtful and moving.

Following the second intermission, the program became lively with Return; modern choreographic touches by Robert Garland that had both club dance and street dance appeal. Performed to the well-known tunes of James Brown, Mother Popcorn, Superbad and I Got the Feelin' and Aretha Franklin's Baby, Baby, Baby and Call Me; the company wowed the audience with their stylized technique.

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center continues their 2014 season with more opportunities for audiences to enjoy dance. Upcoming performances include Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company on Saturday, February 25th; Sleeping Beauty on Sunday February 9th; Mystic India: The World Tour on Saturday March 8th; Jersey Moves! Festival of Dance on Saturday, March 8th and Saturday May 3rd; Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on Saturday May 10th and Sunday May 11th.

NJ PAC is conveniently located in the Arts District of Newark. Tickets for all of their performances can be obtained by calling 1-888-GONJPAC, online at www.njpac.org, or by visiting their box office at One Center Street in Newark, NJ.

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy

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