Soles of Duende, a percussive ensemble of three distinct dancers and three extraordinary musicians, comes to Union this fall as part of the Department of Theater and Dance’s annual Stephanie C. Davis Dance Residency. A truly collaborative sextet, the group considers itself both a band and a dance company.
This year, Union is partnering with Proctors, a neighboring performing arts center, for a residency that will include a participatory workshop, a lecture/demonstration, and both educational and public performances.
"We are excited to be partnering with Proctors this year," said Laurie Zabele Cawley, Union’s Gustave L. Davis ’59 and Susan S. Davis Director of Dance. “They share our passion for the arts and commitment to community, and with this incredible venue right in our backyard, we’re able to bring an inspiring performance even closer to our campus community and the wider region."
Bonded by their love of music and dance, Soles of Duende elevates the joy of true collaboration across three percussive dance disciplines. Rooted in the sounds of Tap (Amanda Castro), Flamenco (Arielle Rosales), and Kathak (Brinda Guha), the dancers meld cultures and forms while engaging in rhythmic conversation with musicians Ryan “the Arkitecht” Stanbury (trumpet), Okai Musik (percussion), and AJ Jagannath (electric guitar), who perform live with the dancers.
After attending a performance by the artists this past summer, Mercedes Mayna-Medrano, assistant professor of Spanish and Hispanic Studies, said, "The mix of Latino-infused tap, Flamenco, and Indian dance creates a stunning and thoroughly enjoyable experience."
On Thursday, Oct. 16, the artists will offer two free events in Old Chapel, both open to the public with no registration required. Movers and music-makers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in a percussive workshop from 6 to 7:15 p.m. An hour-long lecture/demonstration will follow at 7:30 p.m.
Now in its 17th year, the Stephanie C. Davis Dance Residency was created by a gift from Gus Davis ‘ 59 and Sue Davis in memory of their daughter, a dancer with a lifelong love of the performing arts. “The joy that dance brought to Stephanie is commemorated with this selection of artists whose work bursts with energy, blending traditions into a vibrant celebration of community and art,” said Dance Residency Coordinator Kim Engel.
The residency culminates with a performance in the GE Theatre at Proctors at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 17. The company will present its Can We Dance Here program, deemed “a treasure and a triumph” by The New York Times. According to Dance Magazine, the work shines “when they tackle the same rhythm in their own style, showcasing just how many similarities live within their differences.”
A limited number of tickets to the performance at Proctors are available free for Union faculty, students and staff with a Union ID.