The Chicago-based contemporary ballet company PARA.MAR Dance Theatre, makes their Studebaker Theater debut with “/ v. anthology /,” 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21. These performances mark the company’s premiere presentation of mixed repertory works on a proscenium stage in Chicago. This series is the culmination of PARA.MAR's fifth season and features an exclusive collection of works curated by founder and director Stephanie Martinez with renowned choreographers Jennifer Archibald, Xavier Nuñez, Hélène Simoneau, and Yin Yue. Martinez's own creations "kiss." and "Dos Lados" bookend the program, securing her unique artistic voice to the lineup.
Says PARA.MAR Founder/Artistic Director Stephanie Martinez. "When I started PARA.MAR Dance Theatre in 2020, it was born out of a deep desire to offer hope, opportunity, and resilience during a time when the world felt like it was turning upside down. The pandemic had left many of us desperate for connection, and I could never have imagined the incredible journey that would follow. From masked performances of ‘kiss.’ in a parking lot in Avondale – to an evening of spectacular works from some of the best choreographers working in dance today at the historic and iconic Studebaker Theater of the Fine Arts Building, it is a reminder to us all to take chances that focus on what is important – the art, the audiences, connection and hope."
Works featured in the “/ v. anthology /” program are as follows:
“Trace of Grace” by Xavier Nuñez (World premiere 2024)
“Walk” by Jennifer Archibald (World premiere 2021)
“So Soon My Love” by Hélène Simoneau (World premiere 2023)
"kiss." by Stephanie Martinez (World premiere October 2020)
"Stay A Little Longer" by Yin Yue (World premiere 2020 for YYDC, premiere for PARA.MAR 2023)
"Dos Lados" (Two Sides) by Stephanie Martinez (World premiere 2022)
PARA.MAR Dance Theatre maintains their commitment to radical access to art by continuing to offer pay-what-you-can ticketing. Suggested donation range: $30-$100.
