Latin Ballet of Virginia’s “Alma Latina” Brings Rhythm and Soul to PVCC Stage
The Latin Ballet of Virginia danced their “Alma Latina” at PVCC’s V. Earl Dickinson Fine and Performing Arts Center on Oct. 15 paired with live music by Richmond’s Kevin Davis & Ban Caribe Ensemble. Award-winning flamenco dancer and choreographer Francisco Mesa “El Nano” joined the artists to showcase the various rhythms and movements of the Latin spirit. Each dance was inspired by the different stories that represent their history and culture.
Opening sentiments were shared by Vice President of Instruction and Student Services John Donnelly who opened the evening by welcoming the musicians and dancers to the stage. He expressed gratitude to those in attendance and encouraged people to stay updated on upcoming events. We were told to enjoy the show, the lights went down, and the curtains opened to a performance of splendor.
The costumes featured a full spectrum of colors and Latin styles, spinning and soaring across the stage. The band played an array of instruments from percussion and strings to brass and woodwind. The sounds that filled the air were produced by talented musicians – Davis studied abroad in the Caribbean islands. There was even crowd interaction. Davis stepped to the front of the stage to guide the audience in improvisation. He split the auditorium into three sections and assigned each with a “boom” (stomp), “clap,” and the last group was responsible for the “Hey!” And on cue the audience got a chance to make their own contributions to the show.
One of the highlights of the evening was a guest performance by Francisco Mesa “El Nano” who performed flamenco, a Spanish dance style characterized by stomping and hand-clapping that creates an artistic conversation between musician and dancer. In addition to performing with a handful of noteworthy flamenco choreographers across the world, he has also received first-place recognition for his own choreography in Madrid, Spain (https://www.latinballet.com/el-nano). All of the performances offered a taste of rich Latin history and culture. One example was a story told through movement and sound of the integration of African peoples that were brought against their will to the New World.
PVCC gives the opportunity to experience sensational offerings with special rates for students and faculty. Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming events (https://www.pvcc.edu/fine-arts-and-performance). Ticket information is available online.
