Kickstarter

Eight talented dancers from Merge Dance Company of Texas State University-San Marcos have been selected to perform at the 11th Annual DUMBO Dance Festival in Brooklyn NY.  The group will be featured in the "Kids Can Dance" series on September 25, 2011.  This prestigious opportunity will provide the students with valuable experience and exposure to the arena of professional dance. [see "About DUMBO" below]. 

In addition to performing the choreography of faculty and guest artists regularly, part of the mission of Merge Dance Company is to provide the students with practical experiences in arts administration, touring, fund-raising, and outreach.  Such opportunities prepare pre-professional students for multi-disciplined careers in the arts.

The piece to be performed, entitled "Sick", is based upon the classic children's poem by Shel Silverstein of the same title.  It was choreographed by Texas State Dance faculty member, Pat Stone, with the intention of creating a dance that would inspire young and adult audiences alike.  "I wanted to choreograph a dance, which could easily be used in collaboration with school curriculum -- quality literature enhanced by quality dance".

About DUMBO

DUMBO is an annual dance festival produced by New York based White Wave Dance Company, which is committed to showcasing emerging and established choreographers and dance companies.  Their annual festivals, adjudicated by 8 professional artists, attract applicants from all over the world.

“The public’s response to the annual festivals at WHITE WAVE continues to exceed our expectations. In addition to attracting standing-room-only crowds, our festivals have garnered the attention of The New York Times, PBS- SundayArts, Channel 7, Daily News, The Village Voice and Dance Magazine.” (from White Wave's website)

 

What we need

Texas State University's College of Fine Arts and Communication, together with the Department of Theatre & Dance, has committed to assist with hotel expenses for the eight participating dance students while attending the 4-day festival.  Your dollars will help Merge dancers offset their airfare expenses for the trip.  Any additional funds collected (above and beyond our goal) will be applied toward the remaining airfare costs, local transportation, and food while in New York.