There’s something different about the LimÃn Dance Company, and it’s not just its steps.
For one, it has survived through the death of its creator, Mexico-native Jose LimÃ^n, who died in 1972. In fact, the dance company is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
It’s part of this celebration that brings the LimÃ^n Dance Company to the university on Sept. 14 and 15 at 8 p.m. in the Ina and Jack Kay Theater at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center.
The company’s legacy is not the only thing that gives it such a sterling reputation. The modern style of dance it performs is actually pretty entertaining, too.
In an effort to reintroduce live music to the LimÃ^n repertoire, the LimÃ^n Dance Company performance feartures the orchestra American Virtuosi and Maryland’s very own concert choir performing three powerful dances.
The performance’s first piece is “Concerto 622,” choreographed by Lar Lubovitch and accompanied by American Virtuosi.
Though not choreographed by LimÃ^n, “Concerto 622” became a part of the total performance because of its flow and fit with the other dances.
“‘Concerto 622’ caught what is fresh and vibrant about the company right now.” said John Claassen, general manager for the LimÃ^n Dance Company.
Lubovitch found his inspiration by watching LimÃ^n dance, so his work reflects much of the LimÃ^n aesthetic. He says this helps maintain continuity throughout the three works.
A variation on the theme of Shakespeare’s “Othello,” “The Moor’s Pavane” is LimÃ^n’s signature work. It premiered in 1949 and has remained a classic throughout the dance community. Contemporary and ballet companies all over the world continue to perform this timeless work today.
“Adding authentic instruments makes it the perfect piece,” Claassen said of the piece.
The performance wraps up with a major revival of “Missa Brevis,” also choreographed by LimÃ^n and also a dance classic.
The inspiration for “Missa Brevis” has global implications and reflects the spirit of LimÃ^n. The dancer fought in World War II. After the war, he returned to Poland.
It was there he saw the extreme destruction and devastation inflicted on his people, but also noticed the hope that permeated the disaster.
LimÃ^n would later write: “These people are vital and undefeated. They are without rancor, without hatred. They have a heroic serenity. I found it inspiring. I’m going to do a dance about it. In the ruins, I found a dance.”
LimÃ^n wanted complementary music to couple with his work, so he chose “Missa Brevis in Tempore Belli.”
The song was written during wartime in Hungary but looks “more forward than back in anger,” Claassen said.
“The choreography is very expansive and doesn’t come from a depressed or angry nature. All of it is very life-affirming.”
Take that and add the voices of the Maryland Concert Choir. Now that’s powerful.
Edward Maclary, the university’s concert choir director, said the preparation has been “challenging, daunting, different – a great experience for the students – and a real, wonderful opportunity for artistic collaboration.”
The choir began working with American Virtuosi this past week but will not practice with the dance company until next Tuesday. This presents another challenge in the process, yet it can only supply fresh energy on opening night.
The LimÃ^n Dance Company performance will turn classical emotions into powerful comtemporary expressions. It is modern dance that feeds off history and grounds itself deep within LimÃ^n’s roots to keep this legend alive.
Contact reporter Brittany Borghi at diversions@dbk.umd.edu.
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