Raw Edges return for its 28th performance with "Raw Edges XXVIII"
The Mercyhurst University School of the Arts and the Department of Dance will present the 28th edition of “Raw Edges” Friday, May 1, through Sunday, May 3, in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.
As a showcase for emerging choreographers, “Raw Edges” is a Mercyhurst tradition spanning decades. Every year brings a fresh batch of young artists spreading their creative wings and presenting remarkable dance works. This year, “Raw Edges XXVIII” will feature nine upper-level student choreographers: Ainsley Dunning, Kathryn Gianforcdaro, Erin McKenna, Abigail Lipa, Montana Pastore, Madeleine Sipos, Moira Sullivan, Nicole Walters, and Madison Wanamaker.
As usual for this mixed-repertory concert, audiences can expect a wide variety of topics explored by these dancemakers. The subjects chosen are often very personal to these creators, who start researching their projects months before rehearsals begin. These topics include the psychological principle of conformity; the written correspondences of female historical figures; the condition known as imposter syndrome; changing family dynamics when children grow up and move out; and collective human dynamics metaphorically represented by a flock of birds.
Assistant Professor Mark Santillano, one of the faculty overseeing the concert, says, “The program is sure to take the audience on a journey. Some dances address serious topics and others are up-beat. All of them feature beautiful dancing. There’s something for everyone.”
Santillano adds, “We find ourselves on the cusp of a new era where AI generated content has us questioning if we can believe our eyes. Seeing dancers performing live on stage, real humans expressing emotions through movement, is something that will never be replaced by machines. Come enjoy it while you can.”
Audience members will also have the opportunity to hear from the artists during “Talk Back” sessions offered during the intermission of each show. The choreographers will discuss their process for creating, realizing, and articulating a unique vision.
“Raw Edges XXVIII” will be presented in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Friday, May 1, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 2, at 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, May 3, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, $10 for non-Mercyhurst students, and $5 for youths and Mercyhurst students. They can be purchased online at miac.mercyhurst.edu or by calling the box office at 814-824-3000.