Theatre and Dance Welcomes DanceWorks Chicago & Conflux Dance Theatre

JMU’s School of Theatre and Dance invites the public to attend the annual New Dance Festival, taking place on Friday, September 12, and Saturday, September 13, at 7:30 p.m. in the Mainstage Theatre at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts.

For the first time, JMU’s Dance Program is embarking on a unique collaboration with two esteemed dance companies – DanceWorks Chicago (DWC) and Conflux Dance Theatre (CDT), joining forces with students to bring audiences an exciting evening of choreography and performance.

Attendees will experience works from internationally recognized choreographers, including Joshua Manculich (DWC), Charissa Lee Barton (DWC), Norbert De La Cruz (CDT), Stephanie Martinez (CDT), and CDT Artistic Director Miguel Perez.

“Opportunities for our students and community to engage with leading arts organizations like DWC and Conflux showcase the power of collaboration and artistic exchange. The New Dance Festival not only celebrates artistic excellence but also highlights the exceptional artistry and performance that audiences can experience at the Forbes Center—from our talented students and these outstanding dance companies,” said Rubén Graciani, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

DanceWorks Chicago, led by co-founder and artistic director Julie Nakagawa, is based in Chicago, Illinois, and fills a unique niche in the dance ecosystem by investing in and spotlighting individual dancers. “Welcoming the public to engage with the DanceWorks family to build context around the work of art is both our pleasure and our duty as a good dance citizen,” said DWC.

Conflux Dance Theatre, based in Richmond, Virginia, aims to create a company that reflects the diversity found throughout Richmond and to inspire future generations while fostering community connections. “I’m so excited that Conflux will be participating in this year's New Dance Festival! As a young company, Conflux Dance Theater is dedicated to exploring innovative ways to engage with a wider audience and create meaningful dance experiences,” said Miguel Perez, CDT artistic director. “Joining forces with the talented artists from JMU and DanceWorks presents an amazing opportunity, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that will shape the future of dance. In a time when arts funding is increasingly challenged, it is essential for companies to unite in support of the arts.”

For tickets and information, visit https://jmuforbescenter.com/index.shtml. To learn more about JMU’s School of Theatre and Dance, visit https://www.jmu.edu/theatredance/index.shtml. For information on The Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, visit https://jmuforbescenter.com/ or follow them on Facebook. Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the New Dance Festival. Get your tickets now!