On Stage - A showcase of spectacle

The Barbara McDaniel-led Wolmer's Dance Troupe (WDT) and Dance Theatre Xaymaca (DTX) laid out a feast on Saturday captivating set, lively costumes and vibrant dances, all served on the stage of The Little Theatre in Kingston. The experience was made more enjoyable with various genres of music and impressive clockwork transitions.

As WDT celebrated its 28th season and DTX its 23rd, McDaniel (in the programme note) said that she felt the need for something new. This resulted in the conception of 'On Stage' - the title of the concert. As the artistic director for both dance companies, her creative print was all over the programme in set and costume designs, as well as choreography.

The well-attended show began with 'Hope' - a dance divided into four movements and choreographed by McDaniel and Nicholas McPherson. It was aptly chosen; it was not only colourfully costumed, but well-choreographed and justly danced by DTX and WDT juniors and seniors. Its strong message was also reflected in the costumes, set and structure, and set the tone for the other dances 22 in total.

Among the other dances was the Natalie James-choreographed X-Odus, performed by DTX dancers Tara Price, Catherine Reid and Toni Braham. They danced with passion and understanding of the Bob Marley-penned song.

The high energy displayed in Catherine Reid's 'Mash up the Dance', was a fitting end to the first segment of the programme. Jamaica's latest dancehall movements were vigorously conveyed by DTX and WDT intermediates and seniors. In her chorography, Reid captured the chaos and competition of the dancehall setting, and McDaniel's costume design provided the necessary support.

In 'Shalom', a gospel dance, the artistic director demonstrated some boldness. The customary all-white long dresses often associated with the music were replaced by black ones with white borders. This McDaniel and Loren V design contrasted nicely with the white set representing a church setting. Another plus for the dance was the fusion of sign language in the elevated 'Tafara Mutsaro'.

ENERGETIC DANCING

'Pickney Sinting' was a showcase of Jamaican folk songs and movements and was danced by the full cast of intermediates and seniors. At times, all areas of the stage were occupied. The spectacle created by their props and energetic dancing was further enhanced by McDaniel and Quindell Ferguson's costume design. It was also choreographed by McDaniel.

In 'Dolls' and 'Praise Him', McDaniel may have faltered. Choreographed for the Tiny Tots, whereas the titles are appropriate, the music for both may have been a bit of a stretch for the little ones. Still, they looked adorable, pointing and flexing in spite of the obvious disconnect to the lyrics of the songs.

The entertaining On Stage ended with another strong dance - 'Butterfly Tale', choreographed by Marlon Anthony. Live music played by three drummers added an intriguing dimension to the dance. Likewise, the works of choreographers Aaron Linton, Orrette Beckford, Honore Van Ommeren and Jair Jones added depth to the programme. Those who got the privilege to see the three-day season, which started on Friday and ended yesterday, really got a treat.