You've probably heard about The American Dance Festival. That's because it happens in Durham every summer. If you don't know specifics, it's the premier modern dance festival in the U.S. and it's right in our backyard! Now I have to admit, I have not been a huge fan of modern dance, largely because I haven't understood it. I didn't take dance lessons as a little girl and even now, while my daughter takes ballet and jazz, I stuggle when it comes to naming all the dance moves and following the technique. So attending modern dance performances has not been on my radar. But I have had the privlege of interviewing the long time director of ADF, Charles Reinhart, and Co-Director, Jodee Nimerichter on Heart of Carolina Perspectives and their enthusiasm for the festival is infectious. So this month, I took my daughter and my Mom to see a performance and wished I hadn't waited so long! We went to see a children's show at DPAC put on by a very famous company called Pilobolus. One of the Artistic Directors spent time explaining the three dances and introducing the dancers to the audience (and he was great when it came to relating to the children). The show was wonderful and full of surprises, including a dancer performing with two ROBOTS that flew all over the stage! It's hard to describe or define modern dance and many people say there's no point trying. Instead, just enjoy the creativity and athleticism and beauty of it, especially when it's so close to home. We have a lot of artistic treasures in the Triangle and this is one of them. It's also the last season Charles Reinhart will serve as Director and therefore, the end of an era. Thank you Charles for bringing ADF to Durham and for supporting choreographers and dancers and exposing new audiences to this art form. You will be missed! ADF ends July 23rd. Don't YOU miss it!
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