Martin Dancers presents “Sundays Only In Noho” concert series – dance music LA review

The Martin Dancers, a culturally diverse, non-profit company, will perform the company’s repertoire on select Sundays, June through September 30, 2012.

In a series of summer concerts staged in NoHo, the Martin Dancers will premiere new works choreographed by the company’s director, Shirley Martin.

Each afternoon concert opens with a performance of world music by the quartet Chant et Voyage, whose artists include Kamal, vocals; Andres Vadin Vales, guitar; Carlos Cuba, bass; Henry Mejias, percussion.

The dance works being debuted will follow. They include:

            “Rhapsody in Blues.” Dancers share various emotions with a call and response to the blues. Each dancer’s viewpoint is reflected in movement;

            “Family Portrait.” A dance theatre piece including some spoken text concerning a family member’s non-acceptance in society, and her ability (or inability) to cope;

            “Rhythm Suite.” A dance work incorporating rhythm, movement, sticks, fans, drums, and vocal chants.

The dance performers are: Colby Nelson, Glor Parong, Michelle Atwood, Monisha Garner, Amye Wilms, Avital Aboody, Brittany Lawless and Shiva Bulgeri.

Ms. Martin has collaborated with a quintet of musicians to provide original scores for the dance works. The musicians include Roosevelt Mitchell, percussion and vocals; Chris Walker, guitar, bass, piano, percussion; Greg Bishop, guitar; Bashier Mohammed and Terry Mitchell, percussion.

Refreshments will be served.

Advance reservations are suggested.

***Sundays Only*** in NoHo. A program of new dance works accompanied by live music.

Martin Dancers. Directed and choreographed by Shirley Martin. World music by Chant et Voyage.

WHERE:

The MKM Cultural Arts Center

11401 N. Chandler Blvd.,

North Hollywood, CA 91601.

WHEN:

June 24, July 29, August 26, September 30, 2012.

Sundays at 4 p.m.

ADMISSION: $20.00

RESERVATIONS: (818) 752-2616.