Modern Dance Meets Classic Art

The  dance department has outdone itself with a winter dance program that is entertaining, imaginative and unique. “The theme is really different from what we've done before, ” says dance student Juliet Henry, 16. The program's opening number was choreographed by Henry, who has been dancing for 14 years.

The show Creator takes us on an after-hours tour through an art museum based on the Smithsonian. Think of the movie Night at the Museum set to music and dance. The show opens on a heartbroken artist who has lost his creative drive. He visits the museum in hopes of finding inspiration. He is befriended by Degas' famous bronze sculpture, Tiny Dancer, who comes to life but is visible only to him.

Together, they encounter art pieces by Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet. Works of art are transformed into 25 dance numbers that are weaved into the story. “The musical interpretation of the art piece will provide yet another facet for the audience to imagine,“ says Christine Mani, Benicia High's dance instructor and director.

The show includes a variety of dance styles; ballet, modern, tap, hip-hop, African, and jazz. The contemporary music selection is moving and provocative. Don't expect to hear campy show tunes. The rich assortment of choreography represents the work of Mani, her students, alumni  and local professional choreographers and dance instructors.

Mani created the show's unique theme, but the final concept was the result of collaboration with students. Vivid costumes create a range of moods, while the set displays the inspiration for each number with projected images of art and photos, a new element to this year's show. A crew of about 10 student technicians wrangle the lighting, sound and special effects such as video and fog.

With five dance schools in Benicia, there is no lack of local talent. Creator's 46 dancers include intermediate and advanced students. “The program will show the depth of talent our performers have achieved in their studies,” says Mani.

She has directed BHS dance shows for 10 years, one each semester. Her classes are popular; she has 115 dance students this year. Most stay with the program until graduation. “Once you join Mani's advanced class, it's kind of a family and you really don't want to break it up,” says Zoe Garfinkel, a junior in the advanced class.

Performance is mandatory for advanced students but intermediate students volunteer without receiving class credit. They do it for the sake of performance.

Performing arts programs in public schools are not common in Solano County. “I'm excited that we still have a dance program. We're hoping the state of California will allow this to continue,” says Mani.

With the success of the TV show Glee, it's no surprise that students have begun asking for a musical theater or glee club. Mani teaches drama, but there is no vocal teacher at BHS. “I'm hoping that performing arts will continue to grow," she says. "it's something that students are interested in.”

Three performances of Creator are scheduled: Thursday at 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Performing Arts Building. Admission  is $10, $7 for students with ID. Discounted tickets are available in advance from BHS Performing Arts, 707-751-2336.