'Human Landscapes' To Be Presented at University of Hartford

Several new dances will be premiered later this week when the Full Force Dance Theatre presents “” at the Robert C. and Ann T. Roberts Foundation Theater at the Handel Performing Arts Center of the .

West Hartford resident Katie Stevinson-Nollet, an Associate Professor in the Dance Division of the Hartt School, serves as Artistic Director for the Full Force Dance Theatre, now in its ninth season at the University of Hartford.

“This is one of the best concerts we’ve done yet, mostly because of the diversity of the pieces,” Stevinson-Nollet told me. She chose the title to reflect the two-part nature of the performance. The first half – featuring pieces such as “Pressed Against a Wall” and “Riverbed,” as well as the organic and sensual “Laws of Nature” – investigates the architecture of different surfaces.

The second half of “Human Landscapes” is much more focused on human relationships. This portion of the performance will feature the world premier of “He Said/She Said,” a piece Stevinson-Nollet was inspired to create based on the poetry of e.e. cummings, Emily Dickinson, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. “I am having such great fun with this playful piece which pokes fun at the mating rituals and communication between men and women,” said Stevinson-Nollet.

The mission of the Full Force Dance Theatre includes the goal of presenting “high quality, creative and innovative work by both professionally distinguished choreographers as well as up and coming young artists to the community in accessible and affordable programs.” Stevinson-Nollet has accomplished this with “Human Landscapes,” which includes the work of special guest choreographer Adele Myers of Connecticut College as well as the new and original creation of Full Force Dance Theatre company member Leslie Frye Maietta.

The Full Force Dance Theatre presents two major shows each year. The group has also performed in various festivals throughout the country, including at the renowned Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival in the Berkshires. Stevinson-Nollet has worked to orchestrate performances that combine new and innovative work with the traditional foundations of modern dance, as well works that enhance the collaborative efforts between local dancers, choreographers, and musicians.

The non-profit organization also has “an amazing board of directors,” according to Stevinson-Nollet. Board President is West Hartford resident Lisa Mahoney. Other West Hartford board members include Sheila Jacobs (Vice President), Debby Szajnberg (Secretary), Sue Andrews (Treasurer), and Michael Yaffe, as well as William Cuddy of East Haddam and Peggy Lyman Hayes of Sharon.

“Human Landscapes” will be presented on Feb. 10, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. There will also be a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, Feb. 12. A post performance discussion will also be held on both Thursday and Friday evening. Tickets are available through the box office (860-768-4228 or 800-274-8587) or online at www.hartford.edu/hartt. Tickets will also be available at the door.