Dance--Performance

Evidence Dance Company, a group that has been wowing audience worldwide kicks off the Performing Arts Society of Acadiana’s (PASA) new season at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 20 at the Heymann Performing Arts Center.

Vibrant dance steps, complex patterns and powerful images are part of Ron K. Brown style. The New York Times dance critic Anna Kisselgoff described the company as “dancers who understand Brown’s expressive purpose.” Since the birth of his company, Evidence Dance Company, in 1985, the Brooklyn-born Brown has created exciting choreography using West African dance, urban jazz and hip hop moves, with elements of storytelling. Through dance, Brown explores the history of blacks in America and passes on African culture in a manner that Brown describes as “physical narratives or journeys.” With each performance, Evidence Dance Company provides a unique view of human struggles, tragedies, and triumphs. “I named my company Evidence, because the work that we present is evidence of life circumstance, background, and all the information that comes into us,” says Brown. “I want audiences to understand my stories and messages… and share a sense of community.”

Evidence Dance Company consists of 10 dancers from a diverse array of professional and educational backgrounds. One of the company members Clarice Young, is a graduate of the University of Louisiana Lafayette’s Performing Arts Department. Evidence members Francine Ott and Joel Sule’ Adams are also Louisiana natives.

The New York Post says, “Brown is one of the hottest choreographers now working in modern dance”

The Evidence Dance program includes Brown’s fascinating piece Two Year-Old Gentleman, which reflects Brown’s study of the Louisiana’s Mardi Gras Indians as part of a wider cultural commentary on rites of passage from boys to men. This all-male work emphasizes the importance of community and strong male relationships across generations. The “two year old gentlemen” of the title refer to Brown’s late grandfather and his own nephew Ame, who performs with the company. Two Year Old Gentleman explores and the bond of unconditional love that existed between them.

PASA will host a mask-making workshop led by Lafayette Mardi Gras Indians; an open workshop, led by Ron Brown; a lecture by author and cultural expert Jason Berry; and a daytime performance for middle and high school students.

Tickets for Evidence Dance Company are available through TicketMaster outlets, by phone at 1(800)745-3000, or online at www.pasaonline.org. Tickets are available for as little as $7 and student and group discounts are available. This performance and all activities in associated with Evidence Dance Company are sponsored by Chevron and the Louisiana Lottery.