“Xx” will premiere on Feb. 28 as the first of two modern dance concerts choreographed by University of Utah seniors. The opportunity for students at the U to choreograph and stage their pieces is a wonderful learning tool. Plus, U students can get in for free to be inspired by their peer’s work. Choreographer Lexi Hauck said, “I’ve been a dancer for as long as I can remember. It’s always been a part of who I am. As I’ve gotten older and made the decision to make this my career, I have discovered how essential art is to the world, and as an artist, I feel like I am doing my part in making this world a better place.”
This concert will be her third piece to premiere at the U and she couldn’t be more excited to share it. “My choreographic debut was the fall of 2017 during Student Concert, and if I could go back I would change a lot. I have definitely come very far since then, and I am so excited to present this new creation in March,” Hauck said. Her piece is inspired by her own struggle with learning and how she has adapted for success.
“The pathway my brain takes to figure things out inspired me to create a piece about our thoughts and how they are made,” Hauck said. Her piece features four dancers and each is a unique individual. Hauck said, “I wanted this dance to be incredibly human, and all four of them have so much honesty within their movement, it has been amazing to work with.”
Working with such talented dancers has really improved the process as a whole for Hauck. “I’d have to say my favorite part about this process was being in a creative space with my dancers who were so enthusiastic and willing, and hardworking. Their dedication made my job easy, with every rehearsal we had always looked forward to the next one.” There are no triggers in Hauck’s piece, and her only wish is for the audience to enjoy their time viewing her work.
Great dancers and great choreographers working together — what could be more interesting to watch? Hauck and the other choreographers are undergraduate seniors this year but will be moving onto company and graduate roles in the future. Modern dance is an experience unlike any other, with organic movement styles and atypical storylines. Don’t miss the first modern concert Feb. 28 to March 2 or the second concert March 21 to 23. Tickets are free with a uID.