Washington Ballet’s transcenDANCE: An Evening of Powerful Storytelling Through Movement
By • February 24, 2025 0 255
By Charlotte Meyer-Schoenherr
The Washington Ballet’s latest production, transcenDANCE, which opened last Thursday night at the Eisenhower Theater and ran through Sunday, was a profound exploration of contemporary stories through the dynamic art of dance. Under the visionary guidance of Artistic Director Edwaard Liang, the program featured the work of choreographers Jennifer Archibald, Ulysses Dove and Liang himself, offering audiences a captivating blend of narrative, emotion, and artistry.
In his welcome address, Liang emphasized that transcenDANCE is “more than just a performance; it’s an invitation to a conversation.” This sentiment set the tone for an evening where dance transcended mere movement, delving into the complexities of the human experience. Liang also highlighted the diplomatic nature of the evening, noting the presence of representatives from 20 nations and 13 ambassadors.
Artistic Director Edwaard Liang welcoming the guests to the first performance of transcenDANCE. Photo by Charly Meyer-Schoenherr.
The program consisted of three distinct ballets: “Vespers” by Ulysses Dove, “Seasons” by Edwaard Liang, and “LucidNOISE” by Jennifer Archibald. Each piece showcased the unique choreographic voices of its creators, offering a spectrum of artistic expression that captivated the audience.
One of the standout pieces was LucidNOISE, a performance unlike anything seen before, blending modern shapes with the pulsating energy of Swedish House music. The combination of lighting, music, and dance created a mesmerizing experience that left the audience spellbound.
With a creative team led by rehearsal directors Andres Estevez and Tamás Krizsa, and the evocative lighting design by Jack Mehler, transcenDANCE was as visually compelling as it was very emotional. The production stood as a testament to the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of dance.
A moment captured during the first ballet, “LucidNOISE.” Phoot by Charlotte Meyer-Schoenherr.
The evening delivered on its promise of inspiration and connection through dance, leaving me moved and very engaged during the show. The transcenDANCE program not only celebrated the power of dance but also highlighted its role as a bridge between cultures and communities.
