2011 marks the twentieth professional season of the Eisenhower Dance Ensemble, Michigan's premier modern dance company. Considered to be one of the finest contemporary dance ensembles in the nation, the Detroit dance company gained notoriety for its diverse range of contemporary works and stunning choreography. In a return engagement, the exhilarating dance company brings its panache and innovative choreography to the Charlotte Performing Arts Center this month.
Some of the company's many highlights include their successful New York City debut and traveling to St. Petersburg, Russia. EDE just wrapped up a two-week tour and choreographic residency in Minnesota and Illinois, one of its longest tours. It is also anticipating its upcoming performance at the Detroit Opera House.
When Laurie Eisenhower, artistic director and founder, reflects upon the achievements of the company in the past 20 years, she says that the little successes along the way really add up.
"Overall, it's been thrilling to watch a small company grow into a nationally acclaimed company," the Outstanding Michigan Arts Award winner said.
EDE plans to showcase its best work at the upcoming Charlotte Performing Arts Center performance. The show will be a mix of old and new, with the first half reviving repertory from the earlier years of the company. "Red Dress," a duet choreographed during the first year of the company, will be making an appearance.
"It's definitely a crowd favorite due to the comedic elements," Eisenhower said.
The second half of the performance features "Dances from the Heart of Rock n' Roll." The piece acts as a heartfelt tribute to Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, and Neil Young. Eisenhower composed the piece for her husband, who battled cancer.
| Eisenhower Dance Ensemble Charlotte Performing Arts Center March 26, 7:30 p.m. $26, $16 for students cacpresents.com, (517) 541-5690 |
"This piece is very close to me; since it uses music he listened to and spoke to me about our relationship."
The company has performed "Dances from the Heart of Rock n' Roll" for three years, and it is under constant modification. The piece stands as an example of one of the many nuanced works created by the company that audiences and critics admire.
"The choreography speaks to audiences because it's accessible and the emotional range is relatable," Eisenhower said.
In addition to the enthralling choreography and the virtuosic skill of the Eisenhower dancers, the company is extremely focused on surrounding dance communities.
"Our last trip was beyond great, and we're excited to grant young dancers the opportunity to perform with professionals."
