Hubbard Street Dance Company takes IU stage

Tonight the Hubbard Street Dance Company of Chicago will transform the stage of the IU Auditorium with its diverse contemporary dance styles. The company incorporates varied influences and blends many styles together, including modern dance, theatrical jazz and classical ballet. \nIU Auditorium Director Doug Booher said the dance company's unique style is stunning. He said the breath-taking performance should dazzle the audience and make them crave more.\n"The main reason why I booked Hubbard Street was because I appreciate how they seem to combine several aspects of dance to create a unique art form. I believe audiences will love how different and unique their dance style is in terms of how you will normally see modern and contemporary dance," Booher said. "I expect to see a spectacular performance and also a heightened performance from Hubbard Street on that day." \nThe company will be presenting one of its signature pieces of works, "Rooster." In this performance, the group attempts to appeal to the audience using the music of the Rolling Stones. This piece combines popular music with the artistry of movement utilized in the group's repertoire.\n"I see students and other audience members taking a wide appeal to their piece 'Rooster' because it will give them a chance to experience first-hand modern and contemporary dance and will allow them to feel connected to the music," Booher said.\nFreshman Maggie Mountsier said she was excited at the chance to get to see the famous company perform.\n"I have been dancing since I was young, and every time there is an opportunity to see a professional dance company perform, I just jump at the opportunity to go see them," she said. "I believe that dancers and even non-dancers will be able to appreciate this performance because I feel that it will be able to reach out to everyone and allow them to enjoy the expressive nature of dancing."\nBefore the performance, dance students will get the opportunity to connect with the company. Associate Artistic Director of the Hubbard Street Dance Company Lucas Crandall, will be teaching a master class at the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. During this session, company members will be able to experience a little of IU through some of its students. \n"I am thrilled that more dancing and more dance companies are coming to Bloomington," said Jennifer Adams, who teaches with the dance minor program at the HPER. "Everyone I have talked to has proclaimed many wonderful things about Hubbard Street."\n-- Contact staff writer Rose Mary Forte at rforte@indiana.edu.