BEST BET: Luna Negra Dance Theatre

Muy caliente

By Diana Nollen

There's a black moon on the rise.

Contemporary Latino choreographers have been basking in the glow of Chicago's Luna Negra Dance Theatre for a decade.

Their energy and passion will be unleased in a Hancher presentation at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 16, 2010, in the Englert Theatre, 221 E. Washington St., Iowa City.

See for yourself just what happens when worlds collide, mixing the classical elegance of ballet with fiery burst from contemporary, Latin and Afro-Caribbean realms.

Tickets are $24.50 to $40 through the Hancher Box Office in Old Capitol Town Center, (319) 335-1160 or 1-(800) HANCHER and www.hancher.uiowa.edu Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door.

The program features:

“There is a Time” (1956). This piece, based on the book of Ecclesiastes, explores the themes of war and peace, keeping silent versus speaking out. It is set to Pulitzer Prize-winning music by Norman Dello Joio, commissioned by choreographer Jose Limon.

“Nube Blanco (White Cloud)” (2009). Choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa incorporates flamenco footwork into childhood memories of the music of Spanish singer and actress Maria Dolores Pradera.

“Quinceanera” (2005). Company founder Eduardo Vilaro captures the spirit of a young girl's coming-of-age celebration in this colorful work.

Sounds like a wonderful way to help spring burst onto the scene.