When CMU's dance program takes the stage for the first time at the Asteria Theatre in November, they will debut work by a legend of modern dance. Renowned choreographer Bill Evans will visit CMU in October for a week-long residency to teach classes and to rehearse with select students for the Fall For Dance concert.
At 83 years old, Evans has profoundly impacted the field of dance, changing the lives of generations of dancers around the world. He has choreographed more then 300 works over five decades and has been acknowledged with numerous awards as an educator, artist and scholar, including the Guggenheim Fellowship. The Evans Dance Company, founded in 1975, was the most-booked professional troupe in the country for several years in the late 1970s and 80s and has appeared in all 50 states and 24 other countries.
Evans developed his own method of teaching and has disseminated that technique in summer institutes, certified teacher programs and appointments at both the University of New Mexico and SUNY Brockport.
CMU director of dance Kathy Diehl has danced for the Bill Evans Dance Company and is certified in his method.
"Bill Evans has been my mentor for almost 20 years and it is a tremendous honor to bring him to CMU," said Diehl. "I am thrilled that the dance students will have this once in a lifetime opportunity to work with him and very excited to share his artistry with the Grand Junction community."
Evans work will be performed by CMU students at Fall for Dance November 8 and 9 in the Asteria Theatre. Tickets are available now at CMUstages.com/tickets.