Modern and Classical Dance at Thrasher-Horne Center

The Thrasher-Horne Center for the Arts is dedicated to developing and nurturing the artistic potential and growth of the students, residents and visitors of the community by offering the very best of professional theater, dance, and music performances and visual art exhibits. Dance education and dance as a performing art provide numerous benefits to students and ultimately to the communities in which they live.

“Education in the art of dance develops the knowledge and skills required to create, perform, and understand movement as a means of artistic communication. Exposure to dance history and cultures, kinesiology and anatomy, and movement theories further enriches the dance educational experience.” National Dance Education Organization

Research shows that students of dance are:

• Self-motivated, disciplined and focused in their everyday lives.
• Expressive in their communication of emotions, thoughts and feelings.
• Creative and imaginative.

In keeping with the Thrasher-Horne Center’s mission to offer the best in dance performance, two highly regarded touring productions will soon grace the main stage of the Thrasher-Horne Center Theater.

Thodos Dance Chicago presents A Light in the Dark: The Story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, Thursday, January 28^th.

Thodos Dance Chicago was founded in 1992 by Artistic Director, Melissa Thodos, as a hub for dancers to grow, not only as performers, but as well-rounded dance artists. The company’s unique mission of inspiring expression through dance education, dance creation, and dance performance has established TDC as an original force in modern dance.

For over two decades, TDC has been performing with captivating style described as “breathtakingly athletic” and “powerfully beautiful.” The company’s dedication to the American voice in contemporary dance has established TDC as an innovative presence in the modern dance landscape. Reaching young minds through dance education is vital to the mission of Thodos Dance Chicago.

TDC will present a touring production of A Light in the Dark: The Story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan at the Thrasher-Horne Center Theater On Thursday, January 28^th. This inspiring story ballet explores how a caring teacher helped guide a blind and deaf girl into a career as an internationally acclaimed writer and political activist.

The story is based on Anne Sullivan's autobiography and The Miracle Worker by William Gibson.  Choreographed by Melissa Thodos and Tony Award winner Ann Reinking, this performance is funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. As part of the Dance Touring Initiative program, South Arts awarded three regional touring grants to Thrasher-Horne Center. Two of these grants were completed in 2015 with Eisenhower Dance Company in February and Koresh Dance Company in April. In January of 2016 Thrasher-Horne Center will welcome Thodos Dance Chicago with their performance of “A Light in the Dark” as the third Dance Touring Initiative grant. South Arts strengthens the South through advancing excellence in the arts, connecting the arts to key state and national policies, and nurturing a vibrant quality of life.

The following excerpts are from recent reviews.

“When young Helen is first introduced to her teacher, Anne Sullivan, she almost smothers her with gropes and touches - unmistakably the blind-and-deaf girl's only way of absorbing the world. The scene is visceral illustration of the power of dance to enlighten - not just Helen's isolation, but her feverish hunger to know and learn is telegraphed, a kinetic tribute to forbearance and curiosity… The dancing is lilting and infectious, glossed with a warm evocation of the past, an old-fashioned storytelling art not often seen in choreography today.” Sid Smith, Chicago Tribune

“We see the struggle played out between the impetuous, uncontrollable “wild” child and her patient but equally strong-willed teacher, Sullivan, who “civilizes” her by teaching her table manners and preparing her to take her place in her family and society… A particularly poignant and revelatory scene is when Keller learns and is able to articulate the word for the liquid she splashes on her face: water. In the process of discovery, the world opens up for her.  Acted, as much as danced, this work was performed with tremendous empathy.” Ginger Lane, L.A. Splash

“The larger-than-life gestural language of the choreography weaves a tale with an almost mythic tone that gives us new insight into Helen Keller’s world… The choreography renders each character as a distinct, three-dimensional personality… Bruce Wolosoff’s original score lends a once-upon-a-time melodic backdrop that evokes the gentility of late 19th-century society in the American South, yet supports the characters’ contrasting motifs with contemporary phrasing.” Lynn Colburn Shapiro, Dance Magazine

Buy tickets to Ragtime, The Musical

Moscow Festival Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty
Sunday, February 21^st, at 3:00 p.m.

Marius Petipa is widely regarded as the most influential ballet master and choreographer in ballet history. The Sleeping Beauty was the crowning jewel of his legendary career, and it is often considered the finest achievement of the Classical ballet. The ballet is based on Charles Perrault's well-known fairy tale. Tchaikovsky, one of the greatest composers of them all, wrote the music.

The story features a king and queen, fairies, a beautiful princess, a handsome prince, magical stage effects, and courtly splendor. The setting is a storybook kingdom set in the realm of the imagination. A baby princess, condemned by an evil fairy to prick her finger and die on her 16th birthday, is saved by the Lilac Fairy, who declares the princess will only sleep until awakened by the kiss of a prince.

The Sleeping Beauty has been produced many times all over the world. On Sunday, February 21^st, The Moscow Festival Ballet will perform The Sleeping Beauty at the Thrasher-Horne Center Theater. The Moscow Festival Ballet was founded in 1989 when Sergei Radchenko, legendary principal dancer of the Bolshoi Ballet, sought to create an independent new company which would bring together the highest classical elements of the Bolshoi and Kirov Ballet companies.

This performance of The Sleeping Beauty promises to be enchanting and magical.

Buy tickets to The Sleeping Beauty

Coming Soon to the Thrasher-Horne Center Theater

Creedence Clearwater Revisited
Saturday, January 23^rd, at 8:00 p.m.

Stu Cook and Doug "Cosmo" Clifford were members of the legendary group Creedence Clearwater Revival. In 1995 they launched the Creedence Clearwater Revisited project. The band performs Creedence Clearwater Revival hits live for audiences who love that music all over the world. Although they may not have intended it, their band Creedence Clearwater Revisited has taken on a startling life of its own. Their shows are vibrant and exhilarating.

Gladius Flamenco Guitar in Thrasher-Horne Center Cabaret Theater
Sunday, January 31 at 4:00 p.m.

In an era when expertise and originality are often overlooked in lieu of fleeting flash and flare, Gladius defines innovation as a composer and mastery as an instrumentalist—perpetually pushing the boundaries of his Baroque-Ethnic-Metal fusion: on both the classical and electric guitar.

More than a fabulous performer and AWARD-WINNING composer, listeners have called Gladius a miracle in the making. The renowned guitarist has prevailed over a crippling case of nerve damage which greatly hindered the dexterity of both hands, and could have easily ended a musician's career.

Inspired by the great composers, Spanish guitar maestros, and much more, this musical mad scientist fuses the elements into a refreshing formula—evoking the Spanish spirit, yet distinctly unorthodox, mixing influences ranging from classical to rock and beyond. 

Melissa Etheridge: This is M.E. Solo
Wednesday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m.

Melissa Etheridge has won an Academy Award and two Grammy Awards. On February 17^th, she will take the stage at Thrasher-Horne Center to perform songs from her new album, This is M.E., as well as some of her greatest hits like "Come to My Window", "I'm The Only One", and "I Want To Come Over." Known for her iconic voice, profound lyrics, and riveting stage presence, Melissa will share personal stories about her remarkable journey through life and the inspiration behind some of her most beloved songs.

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In this article, I’ve written about the upcoming performances A Light in the Dark and The Sleeping Beauty at the Thrasher-Horne Center Theater. I’ve also noted other upcoming performances, including Creedence Clearwater Revisited, Gladius Flamenco Guitar, and Melissa Etheridge. 

Tickets for these events and others are on sale now on the Thrasher-Horne Center’s website.

The Thrasher-Horne Center is one of the nicest venues of its type in Northeast Florida. From concerts by renowned artists, to live theater, to magic and other fantastic shows, you can see it all at the Thrasher Horne-Center! 

Spread the word about one of Northeast Florida’s best kept secrets! Tell your family and friends about the Thrasher-Horne Center. People will appreciate learning about what they have been missing.

We appreciate you taking the time to visit us. If you have a comment about this article, please leave it in the comments section below.

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Peking Dreams – Chinese Circus, Saturday, November 28

Wondering what to do with the family Thanksgiving Weekend? Keep the holiday fun going with the family-friendly performance of:

The National Circus and Acrobats of the People's Republic of China on Saturday, November 28, at 3:00 p.m.

Columbia Artists Management

Peking Dreams is packed with Chinese culture and history. The extravaganza incorporates Peking Opera, the martial arts, and Chinese circus elements into an acrobatic showcase, complete with colorful costumes, elaborate makeup, and mind-boggling stunts. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to partake of Chinese culture in one of Northeast Florida’s best venues. This spectacular production promises to be a hit with children and adults alike.

Family 4-packs are available for only $99 or $129!

Origins of Chinese Circus

The Chinese Circus tradition began over 2000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty (225-207BC).  The circus evolved out of the acts of imperial court performers who were similar to court jesters in Medieval Europe. The ancient Chinese referred to the circus as “the show of a hundred tricks.”

Today, circus performers are regarded with respect and admiration in China. In 1949, the People’s Republic of China recognized Chinese Circus as an art form that was worthy of being preserved and supported by the government. Over 200 circus and acrobatic troupes are active in China today. Many have toured throughout the world.

The National Circus and Acrobats of the People's Republic of China

Columbia Artists Management

Founded in 1953, The National Circus and Acrobats of the People's Republic of China, is one of the longest running and most distinguished circus troupes in the world. The company’s programs feature astonishing and unforgettable acts like the Great Teeterboard, Grand Flying Trapeze, Group Contortion, Straw Hats Juggling, and other amazing acts.

The National Circus has been awarded over twenty Gold and Silver medals at international circus festivals including the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, Cirque de Demain, and the China National Acrobatic Competition. During the 1980s, the National Circus developed a new style of performances which did not focus on animals. China’s National Circus has visited and performed in more than fifty countries.

Peking Dreams

Beijing is the Capitol of the People’s Republic of China. Formerly known as Peking, the city’s history and cultural heritage go back over a thousand years. The Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, and the Temple of Heaven are located in Beijing, as well as significant portions of The Great Wall. Tourists walking along the streets or strolling through the parks of Beijing can often see natives singing and performing acrobatics.

Peking Dreams ushers audiences into an artistic world full of culture, history, and wonder. The program features unicycles, grand martial arts, aerial silk, solo trapeze, and other traditional circus acts. Peking Dreams was performed for the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008. Since then, this mesmerizing production has been performed more than 600 times all over the world.

The Program

Columbia Artists Management

Acrobatic Master and His Pupils: A Peking courtyard is bathed in bright moonlight. In the dim light of the training room, three children formally become pupils to an acrobatic master. Through patient teaching, the master passes his art and tradition down to his pupils.

The Drunken Beauty: Amidst hundreds of flowers in bloom, an imperial concubine in the Forbidden City admires the full moon while drinking. Hanging on the swing of a trapeze, the actress performs a variety of stunts. Beneath her, the beautiful maids of the palace perform the spinning plates.

Martial Art: Inspired by Chinese philosophy and legend, Chinese martial art combines hard and soft elements with the philosophical principles of Yin and Yang. Actors strike, kick, throw, and jump on stage in a jubilant manifestation of freedom and boldness.

Solo On A Pole: This performance demonstrates the perfect combination of energy and beauty.

Contortion With Carpets Spinning: In the Forbidden City, the Emperor and his maids drink wine and dance. Artfully waving long sleeves, the maids sway and twirl with a tapestry. This act is a combination of classical Chinese dance, contortion, and carpet spinning.

Hoop Diving: Beijing is a modern city. Its inhabitants are like transient guests passing through on their way to some other place. Young people work at a frenetic pace which only gets faster and faster. The two performers in this act perform with vitality as they jump through hoops – backwards, forwards, and twisting.

Diabolo: Diabolo is one of the most well-known games in the history of China. Initially, it was a game in the imperial palace, and then it became popular among the common people. The Diabolo is is a juggling toy that evolved from the Chinese yo-yo, and has been around for more than 4000 years. The Diabolo craze swept Peking and the game continues to be popular. In this act, the Diabolo comes alive in the hands of girls who fly backward and forward with extraordinary quickness and grace.

Aerial Silk: A handsome boy meets a beautiful girl in Peking. From an acquaintance to friendship, and then from friendship to love, the couple represents a moving and romantic story. The actor and actress move and dance with remarkable skill on colored silk high above the stage of the theater. With tender and romantic sentiments, they gaze deeply into each other's eyes.

Columbia Artists Management

Umbrellas Feet Juggling & Hula Hoops: In autumn, the weather of Beijing is unpredictable. Sometimes it is sunny and peaceful. At other times it is windy and stormy. With great dexterity, the performer juggles umbrellas by feet. This act is a great demonstration of the flexibility and beauty of the Chinese acrobatic art.

Straw Hats Juggling: In old Peking, a rich family marries off their daughter and many people take part in the celebration. The actors perform a variety of stunts while holding straw hats and spinning them high in the air in this humorous and popular part of the program.

Bicycle Stunts: This act is based on a famous Peking Opera story called The Generals of the Yang Family.  Accompanied by music and dressed in the costume of women warriors, the acrobatic girls execute spectacular and stunning tricks on their bicycles. Like other elements in Peking Dreams, this act shows the significance of storytelling in Chinese culture and traditions.

Balancing On High Chairs: The Great Wall is recognized throughout the world as a symbol of Peking and China. It has stood through thousands of years of Chinese history during which wars have been waged and dynasties have risen and fallen. In this memorable piece, the performer flawlessly executes stunning and breathtaking feats while balancing on stacked-up chairs.

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“Pole balancing may have stolen the show, but the success of Peking Dreams was truly the culmination of the persistence, trust and passion of the entire National Circus and Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China. The performers, some of whom started training as early as four years old, quite literally supported each other in weaving a dream of beauty, tradition and the impossible on stage.”
Kimberly Armstrong, The Daily Campus, Storrs, Connecticut.

“The capability and strength of the human body is something that can be pushed to great bounds. Demonstrated by the performers of the National Circus & Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China, it is incredible what bodies can achieve through dedication, skill and unwavering focus.”
Gabby Vicedomini, The Cougar’s Byte, Union, New Jersey

"Peking Dreams was a concert for the eyes, as dozens of performers took to the stage...The acrobats made use of music, costumes, props, and special lighting to dazzle the crowds with fast-paced, high-flying, death defying stunts."
Donna Barton, Anniston Stat, Anniston, Alabama

Peking Dreams celebrates the history and wonder of one of the most famous cities in the world. Don’t miss this amazing cultural event at the Thrasher-Horne Center. 

Get your tickets today!

In this article, I’ve written about the upcoming performance of Peking Dreams by The National Circus and Acrobats of the People's Republic of China on Saturday, November 28, at 3:00 p.m. at the Thrasher-Horne Center in Orange Park, FL.

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The Thrasher-Horne Center has several exciting performances coming up, including Grammy-winner Michael McDonald on December 19th and magician Mike Super on December 26th. Check out the calendar.

The Broadway Season at the Thrasher-Horne Center begins in December. There will be six great shows including Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Ragtime, Always… Patsy Cline, Annie, Saturday Night Fever, and the Northeast Florida Premiere of Once. Subscriptions are on sale now on the Thrasher-Horne Center’s website.

Spread the word about one of Northeast Florida’s best kept secrets! Tell your family and friends about the Thrasher-Horne Center. Share this article with them. They will appreciate learning about what they have been missing.

We appreciate you taking the time to visit us. If you have a comment about this article, leave it in the comments section below.

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